Pompallier Mission and Printery

Unlock a unique experience in the historic waterfront setting of Pompallier Mission and Printery. This Kororāreka / Russell based property is a fascinating step-by-step insight into nineteenth-century printing and bookbinding activities of the French Catholic Mission. The guides who will show you Pompallier are locals passionate about the site and the history of Kororāreka. Depending on the time of year, you’ll be able to work through the tanning process in the printery, from de-hairing the hides to softening the leather with the original hand-held tools, and learn how the brothers printed and bound their books. If you’re lucky, you may be able to make a print of your own using the French Common Press.