Stewart Island Tours

Ride a catamaran to Paterson Inlet and take a guided walk at Ulva Island Bird Sanctuary. Your cruise showcases hidden coves and unspoiled beaches with informative commentary. Keep an eye out for fur seals and penguins, then learn about native birdlife and plants that flourish in the predator-free environment of Ulva Island. This tour departs Stewart Island in the afternoon, with the option to include a boxed lunch on board. Numbers are limited, for a small-group experience.

Explore the unspoiled bays of Stewart Island — known to the Maoris as Rakiura — on a minibus tour with a knowledgeable local guide. Starting from Oban village, your narrated tour covers Lee Bay, Halfmoon Bay and Horseshoe Bay. Stop for photo ops of Paterson Inlet from Observation Rock, and hop off the vehicle for short walks along the 90-minute route.

The walk, led by your nature guide, is on a well-formed track across the peninsula, through spectacular coastal forest to a secluded sandy beach. As dusk sets in and daylight diminishes, venture by torchlight through the native forest with the stars and forest night sounds around you. The walk will take about 45 minutes one-way and the track emerges on to Ocean Beach. This wide sandy beach is where kiwi are often found feeding among the grasses and seaweed. Here in the darkness you may spot the Southern brown kiwi (Rakiura Tokoeka) - often searching for food. Afterwards retrace your steps through the forest to Little Glory Wharf for your catamaran ride back to Oban township on Stewart Island. Please be sure to dress weather appropriate and bring insect repellant. You must arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled departure to check in.