I’m delighted to welcome you to Observation Rock Lodge and to share this beautiful spot on Stewart Island with you. Whether you arrive for a quiet retreat, an island adventure or simply a change of pace, my hope is that you feel at home from the moment you walk through the door.
A Little About Me
My name is Annett Eiselt — a Kiwi–German with a long-standing love for hospitality, theatre and the natural world. Before settling on Rakiura, I worked in live theatre directing and management, as well as restaurant and dining experiences, all of which shaped the way I host today: with care, creativity and attention to detail.
Connected to Nature
Stewart Island’s landscapes, wildlife and changing light are endlessly inspiring, and it’s a joy to share them with visitors. I’m especially passionate about the birdlife here and on predator-free Ulva Island — a place I support through membership in the Ulva Island Charitable Trust. I’ve also worked as a ranger for the Department of Conservation and volunteer with Search & Rescue as well as with the Yellow-Eyed Penguin Rehab. Caring for this island and its wildlife is a meaningful part of my life.
Here for Your Stay
My focus is always on warm, personal service and creating an experience that feels both relaxed and special. Whether it’s helping you planning your day, sharing local stories or preparing lovely food, I’m here to make your time on Stewart Island truly enjoyable.
I look forward to welcoming you at Observation Rock Loge.
Read More About Us
Observation Rock Lodge was featured in “NZ House & Garden” magazine in February 2014.
Are you up for great photos and nice stories?
Observation Rock
“… one of the most beautiful panoramas it is possible to imagine. Even the least enthusiastic of nature´s admirers would find it hard to be unimpressed with the view from that rocky point far above the waters of Paterson Inlet. Away in the distance can be seen clearly Mount Anglem, 3,200 feet, the highest point on the island. As far as the eye can see, ridge upon ridge of towering native trees rises above, broken only as they come down to merge with the waters of the Inlet… Go to Observation and there enjoy what no pen could ever describe. The sun sets at such an angle that as it drops behind the low hills at the head of the inlet, its last rays are reflected on the full length of the waters. It needs very little imagination to realize the effect as all the different colours are thrown from the glowing sky on to the calm sea. The nearer shores of Rakiura, the Isle of Glowing Skies, could never be seen to better advantage than from Observation Rock at the close of a fine day.”
“Stewart Island” by N.S. Seaward & Sheila Natusch, 1962