Stewart Island invites you to slow down, breathe deeply and enjoy the simple pleasure of being surrounded by nature. Whether you’re here to walk through ancient forests, watch rare birds, explore quiet bays or simply feel the rhythm of island life, this is a place where every day offers something special — often in the most unexpected moments.
Getting Here
Reaching Stewart Island is easy, with several daily ferry departures from Bluff (around one hour) operated by Stewart Island Experience: www.stewartislandexperience.co.nz
My recommendation: Take a short, scenic flight from Invercargill (around 15 minutes) with Stewart Island Flights: www.stewartislandflights.com
Thanks to excellent connections through Invercargill and Southland, many guests are surprised by how quickly they arrive — you can leave major centres in the morning and be on the island by lunchtime, ready to begin your stay.
Explore Stewart Island
Stewart Island offers a remarkable mix of native forest, quiet beaches, abundant wildlife and welcoming village life — all within easy reach of the lodge. Whether you’re here for walking, birdwatching, boating or simply enjoying the slower rhythm of island time, there’s always something memorable to discover.
Ulva Island Open Bird Sanctuary
One of the island’s true highlights, Ulva Island is a predator-free Open Bird Sanctuary filled with a wide range of native birds, ancient forest and quiet, sheltered bays. The water taxi to Ulva Island departs from Golden Bay wharf — just a five-minute walk from the lodge — and we’re happy to help arrange your visit. Many guests describe it as one of the most special experiences of their trip.
Walking & Great Walks
Stewart Island is a walker’s paradise, offering everything from gentle forest paths to full-day adventures. Favourite walks right from the lodge include Fuchsia Walk, Raroa Walk and the Golden Bay-Deep Bay-Ringaringa track, each combining native bush, coastline and beautiful views.
If you’re interested in New Zealand’s Great Walks, the first and third sections of the Rakiura Track make excellent day trips — complete with a comfortable return to the lodge afterwards. Sturdy footwear and clothing for changing weather are recommended.
Kiwi Spotting & Wildlife
Stewart Island is one of the best places in New Zealand to see kiwi in the wild. Guided kiwi-spotting tours are available with local operators, and kiwi are occasionally seen around the lodge and neighbouring reserve — though sightings cannot be guaranteed. The surrounding gardens and forest are alive with birds such as kākā, tui, bellbirds and fantails, making wildlife encounters a natural part of your stay.
Boat Trips & Guided Activities
From fishing charters and scenic boat trips to water taxi adventures and nature tours, there are plenty of ways to experience the island from the water. Rental cars and e-bikes are also available, although the beauty of Stewart Island is often best enjoyed at walking pace. We’re always happy to advise and help organise activities to suit your interests.
Stargazing & Aurora Australis
Stewart Island is part of an official Dark Sky Sanctuary, and Observation Rock Lodge sits in one of its quietest, least light-polluted corners. On clear nights, the sky opens above you with extraordinary clarity — a sweep of stars, the Milky Way rising, and the Southern Cross appearing just above the lodge.
With the southwest-facing bedrooms, decks and lounge, the lodge is also a wonderful place to watch for the Aurora Australis when it occurs. While the aurora can never be predicted with certainty, we follow local forecasts and are always happy to keep you updated during your stay.
Even without an aurora, stargazing here is unforgettable — a peaceful, immersive experience right from your room or balcony.
Village Life
The village of Oban is just an eight-minute stroll from the lodge — a small, welcoming community with everything you might need during your stay. You’ll find a general store, a couple of cafés and restaurants, a lovely local museum, craft shops and the Department of Conservation Visitor Centre.
For something truly unique, consider booking a greenstone carving workshop with a local master carver. It’s a rare opportunity to learn about New Zealand pounamu and create your own piece to take home.
E-bikes are also available for hire and offer a fun, easy way to explore the island’s hills, bays and viewpoints at your own pace.
Help With Planning Your Stay
We’re always happy to help you make the most of your time on Stewart Island. Whether you’d like to arrange a water taxi to Ulva Island, book a guided wildlife experience, choose a walking route or plan a day of exploring, just let us know if you would like our recommendations.
Stewart Island, Anchor of Aotearoa
“There is a mystique about Stewart Island that is not found elsewhere in New Zealand. It has to do with its wilderness atmosphere, haven qualities, limited development, small population and location off the beaten track”. Leonard Cockayne, a pioneer botanist, wrote of Stewart Island in the early 19oos: ´It is hard to speak of the scenery of Stewart Island without using a superabundance of superlatives´. Little has changed across much of the island since Cockayne´s day. Superlatives are still appropriate. Rakiura remains the most intact – the least logged, burnt and built upon of New Zealand´s three main islands. It is a natural treasure – a green gem in a blue setting.”
Stewart Island – a Rakiura Ramble, by Neville Peat