Top Things to do in Stewart Island
Top Restaurants in Stewart Island
Top 5 Things to do in Stewart Island, New Zealand
Discover the best top things to do in Stewart Island, New Zealand including Ulva Island, Stewart Island Ferry - Stewart Island Experience, Bunkhouse Theatre, Rakiura Track, Ulva Island Ferry.
Restaurants in Stewart Island
1. Ulva Island
Overall Ratings
5 based on 507 reviews
Reviewed By Hannah G
Really great. Easy and inexpensive to get the ferry which leaves at several different times. You can also get a water taxi if none work for you. Ulva island has several walking tracks and it's easy to do them all in a few hours. We saw so many native birds it was magical. We also had a hilarious encounter with a very curious Weka as we explored one of the bays and it took to following us until we left the beach. Great day I would definitely recommend to anyone visiting Stewart Island. We even saw 2 Albatross during the ferry there and back who came close to our boat .
2. Stewart Island Ferry - Stewart Island Experience
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 381 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 travellingbuzz - Auckland Central, New Zealand
I have to say that I was a little nervous about this trip. We were lucky and enjoyed good weather both ways - but I figured - if it was bad - it's only an hour. It's clear the staff know what they are doing and they do their best to make this trip as comfortable as possible. If you get a good day like we did - the views are incredible. Do it...it's the cheapest way t get to Stewart Island - plus you can take more than 15kg!
3. Bunkhouse Theatre
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 102 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 Antarisha - Hastings
Great way to spend an hour on a wet afternoon. Quaint movie, good insight into history and Island development and industries over time. Loved the fire fighter bit at the end. Could watch those guys in a movie of their own!
Super friendly owners, lovely shop, $2 popcorn and Lola to pat - best $10 I've spent in a while!
4. Rakiura Track
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 36 reviews
Always check the website for changes that might affect your trip. See website for the price of accommodation on this track.
Reviewed By Antarisha - Hastings
This walk is not overly challenging and anyone with average fitness can do it easily. Take the right gear, don't over pack and remember your insect repellent...and ear plugs!
Shuttles available to Lee Bay for $30 per vehicle. Cost can be shared between passenger numbers.
Walk is predominantly flat with most elevation in day 2. Not overly steep but patches of stairs up and down. Not too muddy but odd patch here and there. Huts have everything you need. Nice location.
North Arm hut also in a beautiful location.
Views on all 3 days are great, surrounded by beauty everywhere and walk through some fantastic historical sites.
Would be a great walk for kids too.
5. Ulva Island Ferry
Overall Ratings
5 based on 10 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 SharlsG - Traralgon, Australia
We travelled by ferry from Invercargill to Stewart Island for the day and after a walk to the look out there, we got the tour to Ulva.
Staff were really friendly and informative. There were some really lovely walks on the island and lovely Beaches. Our guide Johnny did a great job pointing out the more unusual species of plant and animals.
All in all a nice day.
