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Stewart Island, or Rakiura as it is known in Māori, is New Zealand’s third-largest island and one of the country’s hidden gems. Located just 30 kilometers south of the South Island, Stewart Island offers a unique and untouched natural environment that provides a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With over 85% of the island protected as Rakiura National Park, Stewart Island is a paradise for nature lovers, hikers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Its dense rainforests, stunning coastal views, and diverse birdlife make it a fantastic destination for those looking to experience New Zealand’s raw beauty.
What sets Stewart Island apart is its rugged, unspoiled wilderness. The island is renowned for its walking tracks, with everything from short strolls to multi-day hikes, allowing visitors to explore the island’s diverse landscapes. Stewart Island’s isolation has also made it a haven for native wildlife, particularly birds. The island is one of the best places in New Zealand to spot the elusive kiwi in the wild, and its predator-free Ulva Island is home to a variety of rare and endangered bird species. For those seeking an adventure filled with wildlife encounters, scenic hikes, and peaceful surroundings, Stewart Island offers an unforgettable holiday experience.
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The best time to visit Stewart Island is during the warmer months from November to March, when the weather is mild and perfect for outdoor activities. During this period, temperatures typically range from 12°C to 18°C, providing ideal conditions for hiking, birdwatching, and boat tours. The long daylight hours of summer make it easy to explore the island’s extensive walking tracks, while the warmer weather ensures that boat trips around the island’s coastline are comfortable and enjoyable. This is also the best time to visit Ulva Island, a nearby predator-free sanctuary where you can see native bird species such as the kaka, saddleback, and yellowhead.
Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) are also great times to visit Stewart Island, with fewer tourists and mild weather making for a quieter, more peaceful experience. In spring, the island’s flora begins to bloom, adding vibrant colors to the rainforests, while autumn brings cooler temperatures and golden hues to the landscape. Winter (June to August) is the coldest and wettest season, with temperatures ranging from 6°C to 10°C. While the weather can be less predictable, winter offers a serene and quiet experience for those who enjoy solitude and want to experience the island’s misty, atmospheric beauty.
Rakiura National Park and Hiking
Rakiura National Park covers most of Stewart Island, and its walking tracks are among the island’s main attractions. The Rakiura Track is one of New Zealand’s Great Walks and offers a 32-kilometer loop that takes hikers through native forests, along coastal cliffs, and across secluded beaches. The hike can be completed in two to three days and offers an immersive experience of the island’s natural beauty. For those seeking shorter walks, there are several excellent day hikes, such as the Ackers Point Track and the Fern Gully Track, which offer stunning views of the coastline and chances to spot local wildlife.
Ulva Island Bird Sanctuary
Ulva Island, located just off the coast of Stewart Island, is a predator-free bird sanctuary that offers a unique opportunity to see some of New Zealand’s rarest and most endangered bird species. A short boat ride from Stewart Island takes you to this pristine sanctuary, where visitors can walk among dense native bush and hear the calls of native birds such as the South Island robin, weka, and the Stewart Island kiwi. Ulva Island is a must-visit for birdwatchers and those interested in conservation, as the sanctuary is a key part of New Zealand’s efforts to protect its native wildlife.
Kiwi Spotting at Night
Stewart Island is one of the few places in New Zealand where you can see kiwis in the wild, and one of the most popular activities on the island is taking a guided kiwi-spotting tour at night. The island is home to more kiwi birds than people, and these nocturnal creatures are often seen foraging on the beaches after dark. The experience of spotting a kiwi in its natural habitat is truly special and offers visitors a rare opportunity to witness New Zealand’s iconic bird up close.
Boat Tours and Fishing
Stewart Island’s coastal waters are rich with marine life, making boat tours and fishing popular activities for visitors. Scenic boat tours take passengers around the island’s rugged coastline, offering views of sea caves, remote beaches, and the chance to spot dolphins, seals, and penguins. Fishing charters are also available for those looking to catch blue cod, one of the island’s specialties. The island’s surrounding waters are perfect for those who love the sea, with plenty of opportunities for wildlife watching and exploring the pristine coastline.
What we love most about Stewart Island is its sense of remoteness and untouched beauty. The island’s isolation has preserved its wild landscapes and allowed its native flora and fauna to thrive, creating an environment that feels truly connected to nature. Whether you’re hiking through Rakiura National Park, spotting kiwis on a quiet beach at night, or listening to the birdsong on Ulva Island, the connection to the natural world on Stewart Island is profound. The island’s tranquility and lack of development make it a perfect retreat for those seeking to escape the fast pace of modern life and immerse themselves in New Zealand’s wilderness.
We also love Stewart Island’s commitment to conservation and wildlife protection. The island’s predator-free initiatives, particularly on Ulva Island, demonstrate a deep respect for the environment and a dedication to preserving New Zealand’s unique birdlife. The chance to see rare species such as the Stewart Island kiwi and yellow-eyed penguins in their natural habitat is a highlight of any visit. Stewart Island’s peaceful atmosphere, combined with its rich wildlife and stunning landscapes, makes it a destination that feels both adventurous and restorative.
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