Landscape pastel painting of Russell in New Zealand by award winning Australian artist Emily Holsman.

I had never visited the Bay of Islands before, but my former partner (being a Kiwi who had lived on the north island for many years) knew it well.

By the time we arrived at ‘Russell’ it was very dark and very cold. It had been a long day, stopping to see the sights on our way from Auckland and I was exhausted.

We settled into our comfortable guest house for the night, not venturing out until the following day. For me it was a strange and disorienting experience. I had absolutely no idea of my surroundings and could just as easily have been wearing a blindfold.

I awoke the next morning, walked into the lounge room and drew back the curtains, staring in disbelief at the magical scene before me. I wondered if I was dreaming. I never imagined I was staying in a place of such enchantment and beauty.

Russell was New Zealand’s first European settlement and its first capital.

The town’s streets retain their original layout and names from 1843, and many of its historic buildings can still be visited today.

Curiously, Russell was once known as ‘The hellhole of the Pacific’ as it was a shore leave destination for sailors, whalers and traders during the 19th century. Happily these days the atmosphere is much more savoury.

From the 1920s Russell was considered an unspoilt place for holidays or retirement. The town’s reputation was given a huge boost when American game fisherman and writer Zane Grey visited and praised the bay’s fishing.

In 1930 a new road opened the town and peninsula up to tourism, fishing, oyster farming and the small industries that now provide much of the area’s employment. I dare say many of Russell’s visitors came back or simply stayed on enjoying its delightful setting all year round.

A beautiful pastel art print, delivered unframed with a certificate of authenticity – signed and numbered by the artist. A limited edition of 300.

Available in two sizes: 12 x 18 inches and 16 x 24 inches.

Free shipping worldwide with Australia Post.

Printed on 180gsm enhanced matte art paper.

Pastel wall art makes the perfect gift or a beautiful addition to your home or office.