A world of adventure awaits off the coast of the South Island at Rakiura (Stewart Island). With thrilling activities, winery tours and wildlife walk aplenty, there’s something for everyone no matter what type of adventure you desire. Climb up to Observation Rock for one-of-a-kind views, discover natural beauty on the shores of Thule Bay and delve into history with a trek to the Mill Creek estuary. However, you spend your time in Rakiura, you’re bound for an unforgettable day!

An Explorer’s Paradise

Whether you’ve driven the rental car to Bluff and taken the ferry across, or caught a plane from Invercargill, you’ll likely start your Stewart Island adventure in the island’s main town - Oban. Begin your day on foot by exploring Oban and discovering the small-town atmosphere that island living offers. For historical sightseeing, head up to Harrold Bay and check out Ackers Cottage - one of the oldest stone buildings on the island. Here you’ll also see the Ackers Point Lighthouse in the distance on the edge of the coast. On the south end of the island, you can visit the Wohlers Monument which commemorates the life of Reverend Johann Wohlers - a missionary from Germany who founded a church on Ruapuke Island and served the Stewart Island community for 40 years. Hikers can choose to explore the island to completion with a six-hour trek to Māori Beach. The 22km walk will lead you from Oban through Horseshoe Point and Garden Mount to finish up on Maori Beach for a well-deserved dip in the ocean. If you’re not quite up for the half-day hike, shorter walks include the Fuchsia and Raroa Walks and the Bathing Beach Track.

Wildlife Spotting

Rakiura welcomes visitors from all around the world, not only for its stunningly scenic landscape but also for the wildlife that lives within it. Book into the Wild Kiwi Encounter for a chance to spot the elusive Rakiura tokeoka (southern brown kiwi). On this 4.5-hour expedition, you’ll cruise across Paterson Inlet, keeping an eye out for marine life on the water, before heading to Little Glory Cove for a twilight kiwi spotting walk guided by experts. If you’re a keen birdwatcher, both Stewart and Ulva Islands are home to a wide range of native flightless, parrots and water birds. With tours available specifically for birdwatching, you’re gonna love it! Look out for yellow-eyed penguins and mighty albatrosses on the Pelagic Birding Tour or walk the island while listening to the soothing sounds of birdsongs on the Ulva Island Birding Tour. 

Seaside Simplicity

Rakiura is stunning in all seasons, but a day spent on the calm waters under the NZ sun can’t be beaten. If you’re visiting when the weather is right, head to the Paterson Inlet/Whaka a Te Wera Mātaitai Marine Reserve, where scuba diving and snorkelling are encouraged. Here you’ll see a vibrant array of underwater marine life including invertebrates, fish, and coloured algae. Fancy a paddle on the beach? Bring your own kayak or opt for a guided tour and wade the waters alongside marine mammals and stunning scenery. When it comes to swimming, Bathing Beach is the most popular destination. With crystal-clear waters and a long stretch of shoreline, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a beach day out and a dip in warm weather. Only a five-minute walk from the town, pick up some snacks beforehand, pass by historical sites like the Oban Presbyterian Church and enjoy a beachside picnic. Those seeking solace can head to the quieter Butterfield Beach, or if you’re craving a change of scenery, trade sandy shores for grassy lawns at the Moturau Moana Native Gardens. Meaning ‘islands of bush above the sea’, here you’ll find yourself surrounded by native trees, blooming flora and can take in panoramic views of Halfmoon Bay. No matter how you explore the island, you’re in for a day of connecting with nature and feeling one with wilderness. Remember to bring along your camera to snap shots of wildlife and gorgeous views for memories that’ll last a lifetime. 

If you thought it couldn’t get better than adventure tours, rare wildlife spotting and epic hiking trails, how does a clear night sky full of stars sound? With official Dark Sky Sanctuary accreditation, all you have to do is look up to see the best of the region’s biggest and brightest stars in the ‘land of the glowing skies. Whether your day in Rakiura is spent strolling by the shore or wandering through the town, you’re set for an unforgettable adventure on Stewart Island, and your Thrifty rental car will be waiting for you upon your return to the mainland.