Best Tours & Activities in Stewart Island / Rakiura

Explore Oban Village and its surrounding bays on a modern minibus with a knowledgeable guide. A 60 minute tour with our friendly guides who will provide an insight into Stewart Island’s community, history and environment.  Unspoiled, incredibly beautiful and steeped in stories of Maori legend, Stewart Island is well worth this informative introduction.  There is plenty of time to get off the bus for photo stops and short walks along the way.  Highlights include the Rakiura National Park entrance at Lee Bay, Halfmoon and Horseshoe Bays and views of Paterson Inlet from Observation Rock.

Embark on a guided small-group walk to Oneke, 'The Neck,' on Rakiura Stewart Island. Check in at the ferry terminal in Oban, just a 5 minute walk from the main road. Start with a brief sea cruise to this secluded gem, where stunning coastal landscapes and diverse wildlife await. Your expert guide will lead you through lush forests and rugged beaches, sharing captivating stories of Oneke's Māori and European heritage. The return journey route includes a short cruise back to Oban where the experience began.

Take a leisurely cruise around Paterson Inlet and a 45-minute walking tour in the bird sanctuary of Ulva Island. Your 2.5-hour itinerary departs from Stewart Island and includes a visit to the historic whaler’s base at Prices Inlet and the hidden coves and unspoiled beaches of Paterson Inlet. Your guide provides informative commentary during the scenic cruise. While on board, keep a lookout for New Zealand fur seals and penguins. Please be sure to arrive 20 minutes before your scheduled departure time to check in.

Stewart Island Wild Kiwi Encounters Experience the magic of Rakiura/Stewart Island on an unforgettable evening adventure. Begin with a scenic cruise around nearby islands (weather permitting), spotting rare seabirds and marine life like albatross, penguins, and fur seals. As dusk falls, arrive at your kiwi-spotting destination for a guided walk under the stars. Choose from two unique experiences: Wild Kiwi Encounter: Journey through coastal forest and along a secluded beach by torchlight in search of the elusive tokoeka (southern brown kiwi). Wild Kiwi & Culture Encounter: Explore Oneke, a culturally rich area known as “The Neck,” where you’ll hear stories of Māori and European heritage before your kiwi search. End the night with a warm drink in a traditional whare (Māori building) before cruising back to Oban. Important Info: Approx. 2 hours of walking required. Tracks may be muddy or uneven—sturdy footwear and warm, waterproof clothing are essential.