Stewart Island
Located near the South Island, Stewart Island is New Zealand’s southernmost destination and is 85% National Park. Its beauty lies in crystal clear waters, untouched rainforests and uninhabited beaches. The island is home to an abundance of birdlife including the Stewart Island Brown Kiwi whose population is greater than their human counterparts. Kiwis are traditionally nocturnal birds, however the Stewart Island Brown Kiwi likes to forage both night and day. They are extremely shy and difficult to see. Other birdlife includes wekas, tuis, kaka, bellbirds and the larger New Zealand wood pigeon. Wildlife watchers will see seals, blue penguins, yellow eyed penguins and ancient lizards. Oban is the Island’s only township which has a supermarket, café and hotel/restaurant and rests on the shores of beautiful Halfmoon Bay. There are no banks on the island but most venues have eftpos or credit card facilities. Activities on Stewart Island include diving, kayaking, wildlife tours and fishing. You can also have a round of golf at New Zealand’s most southerly golf course at RingaRinga Heights. The deep sea fishing in the waters off Stewart Island produce good catches of blue cod, moki and trumpeter either from the rocks or charter boats and divers will encounter a vast variety of sea creatures perhaps not expected this far South.
A warm current from the Great Barrier Reef washes around Stewart Island creating its own micro environment. Glass bottom boats give you a great view of the underwater life. Water taxis take you to secluded bays or out to nearby Ulva Island which is a designated open sanctuary and home to species of rare birdlife and forests free of introduced pests giving an insight into how mainland New Zealand used to be. The Rakiura Museum holds the history of Stewart Island which used to be a whaling, timber milling and tin mining community with its roots in fishing. There are many guided tours to consider but you can also hire a car, bike or scooter and explore Stewart Island at your own pace. Transport to Stewart Island is by a one hour ferry ride or 20 minute helicopter flight from Bluff. Flights also depart from Invercargill. Scenic flights over the island are rewarding and some companies combine kayaking, walking and boating packages for a custom made experience.
There are many walking tracks on Stewart Island to suit all ages and abilities. They range from 10minute lookout walks to 3 hour treks and 14 day excursions. The longer tramps have overnight hut accommodation along the track. Stewart Island accommodation is made up of backpackers, motels, hotels, lodges and some lovely self contained holiday homes.