A seafood lover’s paradise
Salmon, paua and mussels are all farmed and processed on Stewart Island. In season, our famous tītī muttonbirds are gathered and can be enjoyed at the local Restaurants and Cafes along with seafood such as crayfish (rock lobster) and fresh blue cod. If you prefer to catch your own blue cod, check out our fishing charters and if someone else in the family doesn’t want to fish they can enjoy on-board cake and coffee and do a bit of dolphin spotting.
Charters and water taxis
From the moment you depart the mainland, ferrys, charters and water taxis are an essential part of island life. Helpful operators and guides can introduce you to our kiwi or pelagic bird life or help you explore Ulva Island a predator free sanctuary loved by bird enthusiasts worldwide. Take a charter and go fishing, kayaking or snorkeling, or simply enjoy some of New Zealand’s most spectacular coastlines by water and walk back to Oban.
Exploring the island
Numerous bays and beaches provide great kayaking or exploration where forest meets the sea. Several swimming beaches make Stewart Island the perfect seaside holiday destination for families. Take a two hour shuttle tour to give you a geographical, historical and social understanding of this amazing place or if you prefer, by movie.
Tramping and Walking
Our cars will get you out to all the walking tracks in each direction where you can take it on foot from there. If you are into tramping there is our popular Great Walks 3 day Rakiura Track or 10 day circuit. Come and stay a night or two at each end of your tramp. We will transfer you out to the tracks and look after your surplus gear, alternatively there is secure storage available at the DOC Centre for a small fee. A combination flight/ tramp/ boat trip, departing from either Invercargill or Stewart Island can be booked via Stewart Island Flights . You can arrange with us to pick you up at the end of your tramp and have a couple of days enjoying a well deserved rest. Or perhaps you would prefer a 2 day guided Kiwi Journey . There is a fully equipped Outdoor and Adventure shop for all your walking or tramping needs .
History and culture
Complete an historical and geographical picture of Stewart Island with a morning trip to the the Rakiura Museum. Discover the rich Māori, fishing, whaling, sealing and mining history of this unique island. Fill in a day around town visiting the Department of Conservation Centre, watching A Local’s Tail at the Bunkhouse theatre or walking up to Observation Point. Organize a game of bowls or take a round of golf at our 6 hole course with outstanding scenery or take an enjoyable and exciting journey into the 3D realm of Green stone (Pounamu) Carving.
Food and coffee
Enjoy an excellent range of food and coffee from the Hotel, Café, and Food Karts or buy your own from our well stocked 4 Square grocery store. Reservations required for Church Hill Restaurant and also the South Sea Hotel during the busy season. Dining also in the Bar.
For a full rundown of tourism providers and activities in the area go to stewartisland.co.nz.