30 kilometres south of the South Island, Rakiura (Stewart Island) is the third-largest island in New Zealand and it is known for its native bird population and epic walking trails. As 85% of the island is protected land, Rakiura offers an incredibly special experience - here is where visitors can catch an exceptional view of the wondrous night sky and it’s no surprise why the island has subsequently been awarded Dark Sky Sanctuary accreditation.
Before beginning your day in Stewart Island, pick up your Hertz rental car at the Invercargill Airport. From here it’s a 20-minute drive to Bluff where you can board an express catamaran and enjoy the scenic hour ferry ride to the island. Prefer a more direct route? Catch a 15-minute flight straight to the island from the airport. However you choose to make your way over, our Invercargill branch is conveniently located to get you back on the road upon your return.
Stewart Island: Play Your Way
Upon arrival, you’ll find yourself in the Island’s main town and only settlement, Oban. Need a caffeine hit to perk up? For excellent coffee and a savoury snack in a cosy setting, take a short wander down to The Snuggery. From here, start your day with a swing, bowl or strategic play on the scenic shores of Oban. For the nearest golfing green, head Southeast to the Ringa Ringa Heights Golf Club.With an 18-hole course comprising challenging hills and slopes and impeccable views across Deep Bay, a round on the greens is essential for golfers visiting Rakiura. For those interested in bowls, experience a laid-back and leisurely atmosphere at the Stewart Island Bowling Club. Or, if logic and strategy are preferred, bring a friend and try your hand at a game of giant chess. The life-sized outdoor chessboard is on the Halfmoon Bay waterfront, providing players with peaceful surroundings and the relaxing sounds of waves lapping nearby.
Discover the Island on a Coastal Cruise
After a gentler start to the morning, take to the waters for an adventure cruise around the island. Discover all that this island and its surroundings has offer on the Paterson Inlet Discovery Cruise. This 3.5-hour tour will take you from Halfmoon Bay through the Ulva Island/Te Wharawhara Marine Reserve and past the Bravo Islands. Complete with a birdwatching segment, tours of historic landmarks and rare wildlife spotting opportunities, this ultimate half-day cruise won’t disappoint. Rakiura Charters also offers more specific cruises, including the Paterson Inlet Marine Farms Tour where aquaculture lovers can explore salmon, mussel and oyster farms or - for a shorter option - the 1.5-hour Freshwater River Scenic Cruise offers breathtaking views along with an onboard history talk from experienced guides. Renowned for being home to endangered bird species and rare flora, discover Ulva Island with an add-on wildlife experience or kiwi spotting tour on your cruise. For a fully personalised cruise, choose a custom or exclusive tour to explore to your heart’s content.
An Exploration of Art, Nature and History
After a relaxing afternoon spent onboard a catamaran, take some time out to admire authentic New Zealand art at the Rakiura Art Gallery. From watercolour prints of Stewart Island landscapes to stunning photographs of native birds, commemorate your visit to Rakiura with a piece from the collection. No trip to ‘the land of the glowing skies’ is complete without heading to the Rakiura Museum Te Puka o Te Waka. Here you’ll find ancient stories of the land’s rich history, discover the varieties of birds native to the region - including the Titi and Kiwi - and browse a range of historical artefacts and items, from bone fishhooks to traditional Greenstone.
For dinner, dine in comfort and enjoy local hospitality at the South Sea Hotel Restaurant and Pub. Overlooking Thomson Bay, the restaurant focuses on locally caught seafood and a menu that caters to all tastes, with outdoor seating options available for a dazzling waterfront dining experience. A range of accommodation is also on offer at the South Sea Hotel, including traditional hotel rooms, a private cottage or a six-person beach house if you’d like to extend your stay in Rakiura.
Once the sun sets, look up to see Stewart Island’s famous starry night sky for yourself and take in a breath of fresh air before departing. Upon arrival back on the mainland, your rental car awaits for you to continue your adventure around the Southland or tuck in for the night at a boutique accommodation. Reflecting on your day in Stewart Island, you’ll long to revisit and spend even more time pacing the shores, breathing in the island air and discovering every inch of magical Rakiura.