Rakiura National Park

Rakiura National Park, covering 85% of Stewart Island, is New Zealand's newest national park and a sanctuary for native wildlife. Accessible only by ferry or flight from Bluff, this remote wilderness offers a rare chance to experience untouched nature, from lush rainforests to pristine beaches. The park is a haven for birdwatchers, with kiwi, weka, and kākā thriving in the predator-free environment. Hiking the Rakiura Track, one of New Zealand's Great Walks, is a quintessential experience, but day walks and water excursions also reveal the park's raw beauty.

Highlights & What to See

• Rakiura Track: A 3-day, 32 km circuit through coastal forests and along stunning beaches, with well-maintained huts and campsites.
• Ulva Island Open Sanctuary: A pest-free island bird sanctuary accessible by water taxi, where you can spot kiwi, saddleback, and yellowhead.
• Oban: The main settlement on Stewart Island, offering accommodation, dining, and a starting point for trips into the park.
• Paterson Inlet: A beautiful inlet perfect for kayaking, boat tours, and spotting seals and penguins.
• Mason Bay: A remote beach on the west coast, accessible by charter flight or a multi-day hike, known for its dramatic sand dunes and wildlife.
• Night-time kiwi spotting: Rakiura is one of the best places in New Zealand to see wild kiwi, especially on beaches and forest tracks after dark.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate at least 3 to 5 days to fully appreciate Rakiura National Park. The Rakiura Track itself takes 3 days, but add extra time for day hikes, birdwatching, and exploring Oban. If you're short on time, a 2-day visit allows for a day trip to Ulva Island and a short walk on the Rakiura Track. For a comprehensive experience, combine the track with a water taxi to remote beaches.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Bluff: The departure point for ferries to Stewart Island, known for its famous Bluff oysters and the iconic Bluff signpost.
• Invercargill: The nearest city, with museums, gardens, and the Southern Scenic Route connecting to the Catlins and Fiordland.
• The Catlins: A coastal region with waterfalls, sea caves, and wildlife like fur seals and yellow-eyed penguins, ideal for a road trip.
• Fiordland National Park: New Zealand's largest national park, home to Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound, and the Kepler Track.

Please check official sources for current details.