Karen's place is the perfect location in Russell. She provides many thoughtful touches throughout your stay and is as nice as they come. There is absolutely no beating the view from your own (very large) balcony with chairs, lounger, table and even a telescope which WILL get used :)
Bonus - if you're fit enough ... hike the Whangamumu Track to the beach and (at low tide) the old whaling station ... an absolutely stunning journey you likely will be the sole inhabitants of paradise for an afternoon.