If you’re looking for some stunning untouched scenery and a good dose of adventure, Stewart Island is your go-to. It’s sparse and unspoiled, with predator-free islands, beautiful beaches and dense bush. Stewart Island is New Zealand’s third largest island, and you can get here by a short ferry ride from Bluff. This is the place to go for an iconic kiwi expedition.
1. Rakiura Track
Hike the wondrous and challenging Rakiura track. With thick bush and a variety of New Zealand flora and fauna, you’ll be in awe of what Stewart Island has to offer. This hike typically takes about 3 days to complete. Enjoy sights such as the old saw mill and remnants of a Maori pa. It’s an intriguing and varied walk. The Rakiura Track gives a great perspective on the island, and showcases the native wildlife in their natural habitat. This walk is recommended for more experienced trampers.
2. Star Gazing
There are very few places in the world where light pollution is at a minimum, and the opportunity to view an untainted sky is rare. Stewart island is one of these places. Stewart Island / Rakiura has been awarded a ‘Dark Sky Accreditation’ for its outstanding sky quality. If you’re ready for a late night under the stars, this is an unbeatable location. Witness constellations such as the Southern Pointers, The Cruz, Southern Cross, The Jewel Box Cluster and more. Many of the stunning constellations are exclusive to the Southern Hemisphere.
3. Oban Beach
Oban Beach is known as the bathing beach. Around the island you will find some great beaches to explore, though Oban Beach should be top on this list. Close to the settlement of Oban, this beach is often still and sheltered. The generally calm water is perfect for spending a day relaxing in the waves. If you’ve had a morning tramping, this might just be the activity for you. The chilly water at the south of the south will definitely invigorate your senses!
4. Bird Watching
If you’ve taken your camera for your Stewart Island adventure, or have just come to see the abundance of native nature, Stewart Island / Rakiura is the place for bird watching. The island is home to a wide variety of native birds. Due to the massive conservation efforts on the island, there is an increasing bird population. With limited interference in their natural habitat, the bird-life is flourishing.
5. Rakiura Museum
A slice of adventure in Aotearoa is not complete without a visit to a small town museum. The Rakiura Museum is an excellent way to learn more about the history of Stewart Island. It offers a compelling experience for adults and children. In particular, it has an extensive range of photographs showcasing Stewart Island’s history.
6. Fishing Charter
This is a recreational activity that draws a lot of people to the island. The surrounds of Stewart Island are home to many different species of fish, big and small. All in all, great conditions for a fishing expedition. Stewart Island has many chartered fishing options from townships on the island, and many are run by locals. If you are an avid fisherman, or if you’re trying out something new, Stewart Island is an excellent location to take a chartered fishing trip.
7. Ulva Island
Ulva Island is a picturesque and largely untouched island in the Patterson Inlet. The island is so notable thanks to the large conservation efforts. It’s an awesome location to view New Zealand’s birds and flora. Locals to Stewart Island have put considerable money and effort into assisting with the preservation of the bird life in the area, and to the research and release of these native birds. You may even see a Southern Brown Kiwi roaming around on Ulva Island!
