Joseph England, an immigrant shoemaker built The Gables in 1847. He had purchased the land for 30 pounds from Moko, a Maori chief several years earlier. He used whalebone for the foundation piles (you can see one of them in the waterfront bar) and pit-sawn Kauri throughout the building. He offered his house for sale in 1849 for 60 pounds and Henry Hicton, his wife Elizabeth and two daughters from Bolton, England, took up residence.

The secret room on the first floor belongs to a later and less respectable owner. It was apparently used for hiding sailors who had jumped ship – sailors who no doubt had taken advantage of The Gables' reputation as a "provider for the needs of whaler."

In the 1860's The Gables was a shop and bake house; later a salvation Army Boys Home, until it reverted again to providing for the needs (albeit different needs) of travelers.

Most recently purchased in 1980 by Robert and Jenny Loosley, the longest owners in its history. The Gables continued to build a reputation with foreigners and New Zealanders enjoying local seafood in one of the countries top summer destinations.

With Kauri panelling, open fires and original maps, prints and early photographs the Gables retains its old world charm. The beams are crooked, the floor slopes, but the building survives – the only witness, together with its more spiritual neighbors, Christ Church and the Catholic Mission, of Russell in the bawdy 1840's. The Gables is now listed as a Heritage building by the New Zealand Historic Places Trust.

In November 2009, new owner Nick Loosley brought The Gables back into the family. Parents Robert & Jenny operated the restaurant from 1980 85, building a reputation as one of Northland's top restaurants.

Since re-opening, there has been significant renovation, with a new kitchen and beautifully decorated bar the most recent additions. Whilst reformed and more functional, the new Gables takes diners back to what it was so many years ago, transforming the charming old space into a homely yet chic and sophisticated dining area, utilizing open fireplaces and original wooden floors and paneling.

Fine food with a relaxed atmosphere is the order today for the 1847 landmark on the picturesque Russell Waterfront.

Locally raised Colin Saunders (formerly of the award winning Contented Sole, Essex) heads up a strong and international team of chefs. Colin's menu always emphasizes the freshest local fish, as well as top cuts of N.Z. beef and lamb, creating traditional dishes with an unmistakable Northland touch.

Food is served up by a young, dynamic and often international team of floor staff, with a few old pockets of local
knowledge throughout.