Stewart Island

Stewart Island, New Zealand's third-largest island, is a haven for those seeking untamed wilderness, rare birdlife, and a slower pace of life. With just a few hundred residents and over 80% of its land protected as Rakiura National Park, this is a place where nature takes centre stage. The island's rugged coastline, pristine beaches, and dense native bush are home to kiwi, weka, and the iconic Stewart Island brown kiwi, which often emerges at dusk. The main settlement, Oban, offers a handful of cafes and accommodation, but the real draw is the outdoor adventures that await.

Highlights & What to See

• Rakiura National Park – Covering most of the island, this park offers tramping tracks through lush rainforest and along stunning coastlines. The Rakiura Track is a 3-day Great Walk, but day hikes like the Fern Gully Track are equally rewarding.
• Ulva Island – A predator-free sanctuary just a short water taxi ride from Oban, where you can spot rare birds like the South Island saddleback and yellowhead in their natural habitat.
• Oban – The island's only town, with a laid-back vibe, a tiny museum, and the iconic Church Hill. Grab a coffee at the South Sea Hotel and watch the fishing boats come in.
• Stewart Island kiwi spotting – Join a guided night walk to see the Stewart Island brown kiwi foraging in the wild – a magical experience unique to this island.
• Paterson Inlet – Explore this large, sheltered inlet by kayak or boat, passing historic sites, secluded bays, and bird colonies.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan for at least three days to soak up the island's atmosphere and tackle a couple of walks. If you're short on time, a day trip from Invercargill is possible via flight, but you'll miss the twilight kiwi tours and the chance to really unwind. For trampers, the Rakiura Track takes three days, but many visitors stay 4–5 days to explore Ulva Island, kayak, and simply enjoy the quiet.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Invercargill – The gateway to Stewart Island, with its art deco architecture, the Southland Museum, and the nearby Oreti Beach.
• The Catlins – A rugged coastal region south of Dunedin, known for its waterfalls, petrified forest, and wildlife like seals and penguins.
• Bluff – Famous for its oysters and the start of the Southern Scenic Route. Take a photo at Stirling Point, the southernmost point of the South Island road network.
• Fiordland National Park – A few hours' drive from Invercargill, offering dramatic fiords, Milford Sound, and world-class tramping.

Please check official sources for current details.