Things to do on Stewart Island, New Zealand

A few years before I visited Stewart Island, a group of friends spent a few days there. I was invited too, but I was already travelling elsewhere, so I had to settle for jealously watching their social media updates.

I finally got my chance during a cruise shore day. We spent our time walking around Oban and Golden Bay, visiting Moturau Moana Native Gardens, stopping at beaches and eating some particularly memorable fish and chips from Kai Kart.

Our shore day gave me a lovely introduction to the things to do on Stewart Island, and now I’d like to return for longer walks and a chance to spot wild kiwi.

You don’t need to tackle a multi-day hike to enjoy Stewart Island, though. We had a great day exploring on foot, and there’s plenty to consider whether you’re visiting for a few hours or several days.

This guide combines my own shore-day experiences with other things to do on Stewart Island, including the wildlife outings and longer walks I’d consider for a return visit.

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Stewart Island at a Glance

• Where: Around 30 km south of New Zealand’s South Island, across Foveaux Strait.
• Main town: Oban, where you’ll find most accommodation, eateries and visitor services.
• Getting there: Take the ferry from Bluff, which takes about an hour, or fly from Invercargill in around 20 minutes.
• How long to stay: A day gives you an introduction. For a return visit, I’d allow two or three nights for more walking and wildlife outings.
• Best for: Wildlife, birdwatching, walking and a slower pace.
• When to go: Summer offers longer daylight hours, but pack for cool, wet weather throughout the year.
• Getting around: Explore Oban and nearby bays on foot, or consider local transport, a tour or an e-bike. Expect hills.

Where is Stewart Island?

Stewart Island / Rakiura sits off the southern coast of New Zealand’s South Island. It’s New Zealand’s third-largest island, although its small township of Oban feels a world away from the country’s bigger destinations.

Oban is where the ferry arrives and where most visitors base themselves. Beyond the township and nearby bays, exploring further generally involves walking, travelling by boat or arranging a flight.

You’ll also see the island called Rakiura, its Māori name, including in the name of Rakiura National Park.

You don’t need to explore the whole island to make a visit worthwhile. We found plenty to enjoy within walking distance during our shore day.

How to Get to Stewart Island

If you’re travelling independently, there are two main ways to reach Stewart Island: catch the ferry from Bluff or fly from Invercargill.

Ferry from Bluff

The Stewart Island ferry takes around one hour to cross Foveaux Strait, arriving in Oban at Halfmoon Bay. Check-in is required at least 30 minutes before departure.

The crossing can be rough, so keep that in mind if you’re prone to seasickness.

Check the timetable for your travel dates before arranging accommodation and activities. If you’re travelling around the South Island by car, plan to leave it on the mainland while you visit.

Flights from Invercargill

Stewart Island Flights operates flights from Invercargill Airport, with a flight time of around 20 minutes. A transfer between the island’s airfield and central Oban is included.

When comparing costs, factor in getting to Bluff for the ferry as well as the fares themselves. Flying may be particularly convenient if you’re already arriving at Invercargill Airport.

Check baggage allowances before booking, especially if Stewart Island is part of a longer trip.

Whichever option you choose, leave some breathing room before an important onward connection, as weather can affect travel.

Visiting Stewart Island on a Cruise

My visit was a cruise shore day, so I didn’t use the regular ferry or flights.

If you’re visiting the same way, check your ship’s arrival arrangements, where you’ll come ashore and how much time you’ll have available. Where tenders are used, allow time for getting ashore and returning to the ship.

Walking around Oban, visiting the gardens and stopping at beaches worked well for us.

If you book an independent excursion, make sure the operator knows your ship’s schedule and leave a comfortable margin before the last tender or all-aboard time.

Things to do on Stewart Island

Walking and enjoying the scenery filled our day easily. For a longer stay, there are wildlife trips, water activities and local attractions to add to the mix.

Explore the Walking Tracks Around Oban

You don’t need to tackle a multi-day hike to enjoy walking here. There are several routes within reach of Oban, taking you through bushland, along the coast and out to viewpoints.

The approximate return times below start from the Rakiura National Park Visitor Centre in central Oban. Allow extra time for stops.

Observation Rock

Allow around 30 minutes return.

This short but steep outing follows roads before a brief track leads to views over Paterson Inlet. It’s an option for sunset if you’re staying overnight; bring a torch for the return.

Golden Bay and Deep Bay

Allow around 1½–2 hours for the circuit, depending on your route.

We explored around Golden Bay during our visit. This was a lovely way to enjoy the island on foot without committing to a full-day hike.

The coastal bush track continues towards Deep Bay, with options to extend towards Ringaringa and Wohlers Monument before returning via Peterson Hill. There are hills and steps.

Harrold Bay and Ackers Point

Allow around three hours return.

Follow the coast road towards Harrold Bay, where a detour leads to Ackers Cottage, built around 1835. Continue through coastal forest to Ackers Point for views over Foveaux Strait.

There’s a navigation beacon at the point, rather than a traditional lighthouse building.

Horseshoe Point

Allow around 3–4 hours return.

This longer outing combines roads and an undulating coastal track between Bragg Bay and Horseshoe Bay. Moturau Moana Native Gardens can be included along the way.

Check the DOC walking information or call into the visitor centre for a map and current conditions before choosing your route.

Have a Picnic at Moturau Moana Native Gardens

Moturau Moana Native Gardens was one of the places we visited during our shore day.

Parts of the gardens were a little wild, but there were picnic facilities and a lovely deck overlooking the sea. We also saw plenty of birdlife, so leave yourself time to sit and watch.

I liked having somewhere to enjoy the scenery without needing to turn every outing into a hike.

Visit the gardens on their own or include them in a longer walk around Horseshoe Point. Bring something to eat and take your rubbish away.

Spend Some Time at the Beaches

Stewart Island has some beautiful beaches, even if the water is a little too chilly for my liking.

We stopped at beaches while exploring, and you certainly don’t need to swim to enjoy them. Take a picnic, wander along the sand or find somewhere to watch the birds.

Bathing Beach is a sheltered option close to Oban. Golden Bay, Deep Bay and Horseshoe Bay can also fit into your exploring, depending on your route.

If you fancy a swim, ask locally about suitable spots and conditions that day. I’m more likely to be enjoying the view from the sand.

Visit Ulva Island

I didn’t visit Ulva Island / Te Wharawhara during our shore day, but it’s an outing I’d definitely do on a return trip.

This small island in Paterson Inlet has native forest, beaches and opportunities to spot birds that can be difficult to find elsewhere.

It’s an important conservation sanctuary, with ongoing biosecurity work to protect its wildlife from introduced predators. Check your bags and clean your footwear before travelling over, and follow the current visitor instructions.

You can visit independently by arranging a boat transfer, including services from Golden Bay, or join a guided excursion.

A guide is worth considering here. They can help identify birds, point out things you might walk straight past and explain the conservation work behind what you’re seeing.

Look at Ruggedy Range Wilderness Experience or compare this Ulva Island cruise and guided walk.

Check the departure point and what transport is included before booking.

Go Kiwi Spotting

Looking for wild kiwi is one of the main reasons I’d like to return to Stewart Island.

The island’s southern tokoeka are unusual among kiwi because they can be active during the day. Keep your eyes open while walking, but don’t rely on a chance encounter.

If seeing one is a priority, I’d consider a guided kiwi-spotting outing. Local guides know where to look and can help you watch without disturbing the birds. Sightings are never guaranteed.

Ruggedy Range Wilderness Experience offers kiwi-spotting and birdwatching excursions. Compare the walking involved, transport arrangements and likely return time before choosing.

For an evening outing, bring warm layers, a waterproof jacket and comfortable walking shoes. Follow your guide’s instructions about lighting and photography.

If you encounter a kiwi independently, give it space and stay quiet. DOC recommends a red light or shielding your torch beam because kiwi tolerate only low light levels.

Walk the Rakiura Track

For a longer hiking adventure, the Rakiura Track is one of New Zealand’s Great Walks.

The usual three-day route links Lee Bay, Port William and North Arm before finishing at Fern Gully. Allow additional time and distance for walking between Oban and the trailheads.

I didn’t do this walk, but exploring around town certainly made me interested in seeing more of the island on foot.

Be prepared for mud. DOC warns that prolonged rain can leave sections with mud above boot height. Suitable footwear, wet-weather gear and proper preparation matter here.

Huts and campsites must be booked in advance throughout the year. Check the DOC Rakiura Track information for bookings, conditions and equipment requirements.

Build some time in Oban around the hike so you can enjoy other parts of the island too.

Discover Rakiura Museum

For a closer look at the island’s history, visit Rakiura Museum / Te Puka o Te Waka on Main Road in Oban.

The museum explores the people and industries that have shaped Stewart Island, adding context to the places you’ll see while exploring.

Adult admission is currently NZ$10, with free entry for children under 16. The museum opens daily except Christmas Day, with seasonal hours.

Check the museum’s visitor information before heading over. It’s a useful option for a wet day or a quieter break between outdoor activities.

Watch “A Local’s Tail” at the Bunkhouse Theatre

For a quirky introduction to island life, watch A Local’s Tail at the Bunkhouse Theatre.

This 40-minute film explores Stewart Island’s history and characters through stories narrated by local dog Lola. Lola died in 2022, but remains your guide on screen.

The setting is part of the attraction. The historic bunkhouse originally provided accommodation at the Norwegian whalers’ base in Paterson Inlet before being moved to Oban.

It’s now a private home as well as the film venue. Bookings are essential, so check the screening and booking information in advance.

Get Your Bearings on a Village and Bays Tour

A guided minibus tour is another way to get to know Oban and the surrounding bays.

The Village and Bays Tour takes around 90 minutes, with local commentary and stops for photos and short walks. Places visited include Lee Bay, Horseshoe Bay and Observation Rock.

It’s worth considering if your time is limited or you’d prefer to reach viewpoints without walking all the hills between them.

Check availability for the Stewart Island Village and Bays Tour here.

Hire an E-Bike

If you’d like to explore beyond central Oban without walking everywhere, consider hiring an e-bike.

There are hills even close to town, which makes some electric assistance appealing. You’ll still need to be comfortable riding on roads and managing descents.

Ask the hire operator to suggest a route suited to your confidence, the weather and how long you want to be out.

The road network covers only a small part of Stewart Island, so think of this as a way to explore Oban and nearby bays. Check where you’re permitted to ride before setting off.

You can enquire about current hire options through RealNZ.

Explore by Kayak or Boat

Getting out on the water offers another perspective on Stewart Island’s coastline.

For a paddle, look at Phil’s Sea Kayak Stewart Island, which offers guided outings on Paterson Inlet. Ask about the paddling involved and choose a trip suited to your experience.

If you’d prefer someone else to do the navigating, browse the local cruise and fishing operators.

Keen anglers can look at Stewart Island Fishing, which takes visitors out aboard Tequila.

Before booking another boat trip, check what’s included in your Ulva Island or kiwi excursion. You may already have an opportunity to enjoy the coastline from the water.

Take a Scenic Flight

With so few roads, a scenic flight is one way to see places you’re unlikely to reach during a short stay.

Stewart Island Flights offers charter and beach flights beyond its regular Invercargill service.

Contact the operator to discuss routes, landing options and what suits your budget. Decide whether you want views from the air, a remote landing or transport connecting with a walk.

If you’re already flying to Stewart Island, consider what a separate scenic flight would add. A different route or beach landing may be more appealing than another flight purely for the views.

Carve Your Own Greenstone Souvenir

For something different, join a greenstone-carving workshop at Rakiura Jade.

You can select a piece of New Zealand pounamu, also known as greenstone, and shape it into your own keepsake in a studio overlooking the harbour.

I like the idea of taking home something you’ve helped create, with memories attached before it even goes into your suitcase.

Contact the studio ahead of time to confirm availability, duration and price.

Enjoy the Night Sky – and Perhaps the Southern Lights

Stewart Island is an International Dark Sky Sanctuary, making a clear evening another reason to head outside.

You may also have a chance to see the aurora australis, or Southern Lights. You’ll need aurora activity, darkness and clear skies, and even a promising forecast doesn’t guarantee a display.

As our visit was a shore day, this wasn’t something we could experience. For an overnight stay, I’d treat an aurora as a wonderful bonus.

Check forecasts and ask locally about suitable viewing spots with a clear outlook to the south. Colours can appear stronger in photographs than they do to your eyes.

For help identifying or photographing the night sky, look at Stewart Island Stargazing.

Join the Pub Quiz or a Local Event

If you’re staying on a Sunday evening, the South Sea Hotel hosts a weekly pub quiz.

Check with the hotel for the start time and how to join in.

Ask your accommodation about community events during your stay too, and look at local noticeboards. A market or small event could make a lovely addition to your plans.

Where to Eat on Stewart Island

My most memorable meal on Stewart Island was fish and chips from Kai Kart on Ayr Street. They were some of the best I’ve had anywhere in the world.

I’d happily put them on my itinerary again. Check opening hours when you arrive so you don’t miss out.

The South Sea Hotel, on the waterfront in Oban, is another option. If Bluff oysters are available during your visit, look out for them on the menu.

Browse the local eating and drinking directory for more places to try.

Church Hill’s restaurant caters exclusively to lodge guests, so you’ll need to stay there to dine there. Check the arrangements when reserving your accommodation.

If you’re staying overnight, organise meals around your activities, especially before an evening kiwi tour. A kitchenette can be useful for early breakfasts and picnic lunches.

Where to Stay on Stewart Island

I didn’t stay overnight, but for a return visit I’d look in or close to Oban, within walking distance of eateries and tour departure points.

Check the location carefully. Somewhere can look close on a map but involve an uphill walk at the end of the day. Ask about arrival transfers too.

These are three options to consider, rather than places I’ve personally stayed.

Stewart Island Backpackers – a Budget Option

Stewart Island Backpackers offers private single, double and twin rooms as well as dorm accommodation.

It’s worth comparing if you want to keep costs down without sharing a bedroom. Check bathroom arrangements carefully if an ensuite is important to you.

Bay Motel – for an Ensuite and Kitchenette

Bay Motel has units with ensuites and kitchenettes, with different room configurations available.

This would be worth a look for the flexibility to prepare breakfast or organise a picnic lunch before heading out.

Church Hill Boutique Lodge – for a Splurge

Church Hill Boutique Lodge offers hosted accommodation in standalone suites with private decks and views over Halfmoon Bay.

Check dining arrangements and inclusions when comparing rates, as its restaurant serves lodge guests exclusively.

How Long Should You Spend on Stewart Island?

Our shore day gave us a good introduction, but it also left me wanting more.

For an independent return visit, I’d aim for two or three nights, depending on the activities I wanted to book.

With two nights, I’d prioritise Ulva Island, a kiwi-spotting outing and a shorter walk, fitted around arrival and departure times.

Three nights would provide more room for longer walks and flexibility if the weather changed.

If you’re doing the Rakiura Track, allow additional time in Oban around the hike.

A day visit is still worthwhile. We enjoyed ours without trying to squeeze in every attraction, and that’s the approach I’d recommend to other cruise visitors too.

Practical Tips for Visiting Stewart Island

• Book the essentials first. Arrange accommodation, transport and must-do tours, then leave room for exploring.
• Pack for changing weather. Bring a waterproof jacket and warm layers, even in summer.
• Wear shoes with good grip. There are hills around Oban, and bush tracks can be wet or muddy.
• Bring insect repellent. Keep it handy for walks and beach stops.
• Save maps and booking details offline. Don’t rely on having a connection everywhere.
• Check conditions locally. Visit the DOC office before longer walks.
• Protect the wildlife. Give birds space, avoid feeding them and follow biosecurity instructions.
• Watch your return time on a cruise visit. Allow for tender queues and keep your ship’s instructions handy.

Why I’d Return to Stewart Island

Stewart Island gave us a thoroughly enjoyable shore day: walking, beaches, gardens and excellent fish and chips.

It also showed me enough to know I’d like more time there. Next time, I’d want to walk further and head out looking for kiwi.

Whether you have a few hours or several days, choose the activities that interest you most and leave time to enjoy where you are. You don’t have to do everything for Stewart Island to leave an impression.

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