Stewart Island

Stewart Island, New Zealand's third-largest island, is a haven of untamed wilderness and serene beauty. Just 30 kilometres south of the South Island, it's a place where kiwi birds roam the beaches and the night sky blazes with stars. The island's main settlement, Oban, is a tiny, welcoming community, but the true draw lies in the surrounding Rakiura National Park, covering 85% of the island. With its lush rainforests, granite peaks, and pristine coastline, Stewart Island offers an immersive escape into nature, perfect for hikers, birdwatchers, and anyone seeking solitude.

Highlights & What to See

• Rakiura National Park – Explore the park's network of walking tracks, from the iconic Rakiura Track (a three-day Great Walk) to shorter day hikes like the Fuchsia Gully Loop. The park's untouched forests and coastal views are breathtaking.
• Ulva Island Open Sanctuary – A predator-free island sanctuary just a short water taxi from Oban. Spot rare native birds like the South Island saddleback, kākā, and the flightless Stewart Island weka in their natural habitat.
• Kiwi Spotting – Stewart Island is one of the best places in New Zealand to see wild kiwi. Join a guided night tour on the beach or walk the tracks after dark – you'll likely hear their calls before you see them.
• Oban and Halfmoon Bay – The island's only town is a charming base with a handful of cafés, galleries, and a small museum. The nearby Halfmoon Bay offers calm waters for kayaking and sailing.
• Boat Cruises and Wildlife Tours – Take a cruise around Paterson Inlet or out to the remote Muttonbird Islands to see fur seals, sea lions, penguins, and albatross. Some tours also visit the historic whaling sites.
• Stargazing – As part of the Rakiura Dark Sky Sanctuary, Stewart Island has some of the clearest night skies in the world. On a clear night, the Milky Way is a dazzling sight.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan for at least three to four days to truly appreciate Stewart Island. This allows time for a multi-day hike on the Rakiura Track, a day trip to Ulva Island, and a night-time kiwi-spotting excursion. If you're short on time, a two-day visit can still cover the highlights: a half-day walk in the national park, a visit to Ulva Island, and a guided kiwi tour. But the island rewards those who linger, so a week-long stay is ideal for immersing yourself in the slow pace of island life and exploring its many tracks and coves.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Invercargill – The gateway to Stewart Island, Invercargill is worth a stop for its art deco architecture, the Southland Museum, and as a launch point for your ferry or flight.
• The Catlins – A stunning coastal region northeast of Invercargill, known for waterfalls, petrified forests, and wildlife like yellow-eyed penguins and sea lions. It's an easy detour on your way to or from Stewart Island.
• Bluff – The southernmost town on the South Island, famous for its Bluff oysters and the iconic Stirling Point signpost. It's also where the ferry to Stewart Island departs.

Please check official sources for current details.