Top Things to do in Stewart Island
Top Restaurants in Stewart Island
10 Things to do in Stewart Island That You Shouldn't Miss
Discover the best top things to do in Stewart Island, New Zealand including Ulva Island, Phil's Sea Kayak, Stewart Island Electric Bikes, Ulva Island Ferry & Water Taxi, Stewart Island Ferry - Stewart Island Experience, Bunkhouse Theatre, Rakiura Track, Rakiura National Visitor Centre DOC Office, Oban Visitor Centre, Rakiura Museum.
Restaurants in Stewart Island
1. Ulva Island
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 682 reviews
Reviewed By Kiwifreespirits - Auckland, New Zealand
We did a self guided walk using the guide book ( $2) we bought in Oban before going We used the excellent Rakiura Charters Water Taxi to get to Ulva having spent a wonderful few hours with them before hand around Patterson Inlet and the Mussel and Salmon Farm area in Big Glory Bay . Great people !!. We allowed ourselves 3 hours on Ulva . Way too short !!! . Should have made it 4 ( it was a fine day which helped ) to give sufficient time to just stop listen and watch frequently eg . Late in the walk we saw a Kiwi very close to us . But we were tight for time and could only spend 2 or 3 minutes looking which was frustrating. Many of the birds are very friendly eg Stewart Island robins that hop on your shoes and check out the laces , Wekas who hang out at the two beaches etc .
2. Phil's Sea Kayak
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 131 reviews
Stewart Island - amazing sea kayak destination. Explore the pristine clear waters with amazing marine life, bays and sandy beaches. We often see penguins, marine mammals and mollymawk/albatross. 2½ hour, half day or full day tours, twilight paddles (sunset!), sea kayak hire/expeditions. Personal guiding - tours tailored for all levels of experience. Your safety and enjoyment is my priority.
3. Stewart Island Electric Bikes
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 197 reviews
Explore picturesque Stewart Island in style on our Eco-friendly electric bikes. You can travel at your own pace around our 30 km of roads, stop and see the amazing scenery and wildlife, and go to places you never would have explored before. The terrain of the island is made easy by the assistance of an electric motor helping you bike around with ease and speed.
4. Ulva Island Ferry & Water Taxi
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 60 reviews
Adventure is allowing the unexpected happen to you! Experience Ulva Island - the pristine forested island and one of few predator-free sanctuaries in New Zealand- and the unique beauty of Paterson Inlet. Freedom Tours, guided walks and sight seeing with the Ulva Island Ferry for those who prefer the charm of a vintage wooden ferry or with a fast pace custom built vessel.
Reviewed By marionq470
Rakiura, the skipper, did a number of drop offs and pick ups for us while we were on the island including our freshwater landing pick up and my snorkeling trip. He’s obviously experienced, safety conscious and caring. Between them the different companies work together and it feels like they know the whereabouts of every visitor to the island and are looking out for them (which apparently is true - it’s like hanging out with unobtrusive extended family). I’d recommend ulva Island ferries for your trip to the island but also for all your other water taxi needs. Flexible, accommodating and friendly.
5. Stewart Island Ferry - Stewart Island Experience
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 497 reviews
Stewart Island Experience operates daily ferry service between Bluff and Stewart Island all year around. Stewart Island is New Zealand's ultimate eco-tourism destination and the location of Rakiura National Park. During the one hour ferry crossing, keep a look out for the Mollymawks (Albatross) that often follow the vessel. Daily coach connections operate between Bluff and Invercargill, and in summer also to Te Anau and Queenstown (summer only).
Reviewed By FreddieB_12 - Bristol, United Kingdom
Lucky enough to travel in rough seas (up to 6m swells apparently). Incredible experience, forget the jet boat in Queenstown, this was the real deal. Captain was excellent and the crew did a great job to try and help out those with sea sickness. First 15 minutes are the worst, once you get through that it's (relatively) plain sailing. Gives you a great insight into how insane those early explorers were and even folks who sail the Southern Ocean to this day.
6. Bunkhouse Theatre
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 115 reviews
The Bunkhouse Theatre shows a quirky 40minute film about Stewart Island, titled A LOCAL'S TAIL. A Local's Tail introduces local characters, community colour, and the struggles and triumphs of the island pioneers, both past and present. Producers, Pete Davis and Penny Golias, hope to answer the myriad of questions that holiday makers have about the 'why' and 'how' of Stewart Island, from the most reliable of all sources - the pub (or more accurately, from the yarns overheard at the pub by a local dog). The film shows everyday throughout the summer. See the board outside for daily session times.
Reviewed By gillians243
I didn’t have any expectations but was taken back in time while watching a 40 minute movie about Stewart Island. Inside the theatre the heater was going and blankets provided. Pop corn was available for purchase, as well as the DVD. Cash only sales.
7. Rakiura Track
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 75 reviews
Always check the website for changes that might affect your trip. See website for the price of accommodation on this track.
Reviewed By AlanP1846 - Wellington, New Zealand
Done! Rakiura Track, Stewart Island. Three days of hills (many, many, many “undulations”), valleys, streams, beaches, forests, sunshine, mist, rain, and mud. Not to mention the numerous stories, jokes, and outright fabrications shared amongst our small group of eight wonderful companions. We were a mixed group - two in their 40s, two in their 50s, two in their 70s, and one in his 80s. The track is quite tricky at times and is certainly a test of fitness and stamina. But, we were in excellent hands. Many thanks to our very professional guide, Furhana, and Ruggedy Range for making it all such a marvellous experience.
8. Rakiura National Visitor Centre DOC Office
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 53 reviews
Reviewed By Ezra710 - Christchurch, New Zealand
We made a couple of visits to the DoC office and purchased some maps/gifts and brochures. Friendly staff writer willing to share their knowledge and love of the area. Interesting displays. Oh, and the [outside] toilets were helpful too!
9. Oban Visitor Centre
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 15 reviews
Reviewed By DERtravels - Upland, United States
The information here for trampers or tourists is easy to obtain. Nice souvenirs for the island itself.
10. Rakiura Museum
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 98 reviews
Reviewed By FranciscaM944 - Auckland Central, New Zealand
The new museum was definitely worth a visit. So much history and personal stories captured. Great location in centre of Oban.
