Stewart Island Rakiura is a haven for travelers who want to see New Zealand’s wild side without the crowds. Its untouched bays, dense forests, and abundant wildlife make it a perfect destination for outdoor adventures and nature lovers. We’re especially fond of the Wild Kiwi Tours and Ulva Island excursions because they blend authentic wildlife sightings with expert guides, giving you a real sense of the island’s natural beauty. Since you can’t bring your own car to the island, these organized tours offer an efficient way to see the sights, learn about local history, and maybe even spot a rare kiwi in the wild. For a well-rounded introduction, the Village and Bays Tour in Oban offers a charming overview with minimal walking, while the Wild Kiwi Experiences take you into Stewart Island’s nocturnal world.
Quick Overview: This list features four of the best Stewart Island Rakiura tours, ranging from scenic village excursions and wildlife boat trips to immersive kiwi-spotting adventures and guided wilderness walks. Each offers a different window into the island’s pristine environment and unique history. Check out the full list below to find the experience that suits your style and schedule.
1. Stewart Island: Village and Bays Tour
At number 1 on our list, the Stewart Island: Village and Bays Tour is a fantastic way to get familiar with the island’s coastal landscape without the need for strenuous walking. This 1-hour minibus tour departs from Oban village and showcases three key bays—Lee Bay, Halfmoon Bay, and Horseshoe Bay—each with its own charm. Your local guide offers informative commentary about Stewart Island’s history, environment, and culture, making it an educational experience suitable for all ages. Stops at Observation Rock provide perfect photo opportunities of Paterson Inlet, a highlight for anyone wanting a snapshot of island life. The tour is especially valuable if mobility is an issue or if you’re short on time but still want a meaningful overview of the area.
What makes this tour stand out is its relaxed pace and the chance to hop off for short walks, perfect for those wanting to stretch their legs without a full hike. Reviews consistently praise the friendliness of guides and the comfort of the vehicle, with one visitor noting, “This tour around Oban was just the ticket! Our driver/guide was informative and charming.” It’s also affordable, at around $36 per person, offering great value for an introductory experience.
Bottom Line: If you want a quick, comfortable, and insightful introduction to Stewart Island’s bays, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for travelers with limited mobility or those short on time but eager to see the scenery.
2. Ulva Island Explorer from Stewart Island
For those who want a deeper dive into Stewart Island’s birdlife and unspoiled nature, the Ulva Island Explorer is a must-do. This small-group tour combines a scenic catamaran cruise with a guided walk at Ulva Island Bird Sanctuary, a predator-free haven for native birds. The cruise itself is a highlight, offering views of hidden coves and beaches, with accompanying commentary on the marine environment and island geography. Once ashore, your guide will take you on a walk through lush native forest, where you can spot rare birds like the little spotted kiwi, weka, and saddleback. Keep an eye out for fur seals basking on rocks or penguins darting through the water—wildlife sightings are plentiful.
This tour is unique because it balances a peaceful boat ride with an intimate, guided nature walk. The limited group size ensures personalized attention and a relaxed pace. For about $88, you get approximately 2.5 hours of exploration, including the chance to enjoy a box lunch on board if you choose. The reviews highlight how knowledgeable guides like Karen enrich the experience, with one guest noting, “She was constantly aware of the group and made sure everyone saw the birds and plants she pointed out.”
Bottom Line: If your main interest is seeing Stewart Island’s native birdlife and enjoying a tranquil boat cruise, this tour offers excellent value and a highly personalized experience.
3. Stewart Island Wild Kiwi Experiences
At number 3, the Stewart Island Wild Kiwi Experiences delivers a truly memorable, up-close encounter with New Zealand’s iconic bird. This evening tour, which lasts about 5 hours, is ideal for travelers eager to see kiwis in their natural habitat. The adventure kicks off with a scenic catamaran cruise, where you’ll look for seabirds, marine mammals, and perhaps even dolphins. Afterward, you’ll head into the bush with a flashlight, searching for the elusive tokoeka (southern brown kiwi).
What makes this tour special is the combination of marine and land wildlife encounters, plus the chance to see a kiwi in the wild—a rare opportunity anywhere in New Zealand. The tour also offers an option to include a cultural component at Oneke, where stories of Māori and European heritage are shared before the kiwi search, adding depth to the experience. The guides, like Jan and Natasha, are praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm, making the night both educational and fun.
Given the 4.5-star reviews, this tour provides an authentic glimpse into Stewart Island’s nocturnal life, especially for active travelers comfortable with walking and cold weather. Be sure to bring warm clothes and insect repellent.
Bottom Line: For wildlife enthusiasts eager to see kiwi in the wild and experience the island’s nighttime energy, this tour is unbeatable—worth every cent if it fits your schedule.
4. Stewart Island Guided Wilderness Walk
Finally, the Stewart Island Guided Wilderness Walk is a great choice for those who want an immersive, scenic trek. Starting with a short boat ride from Oban, you’ll head to Oneke, or “The Neck,” a narrow stretch of land connecting parts of the island. Your knowledgeable guide shares stories of Māori and European history while leading you through lush forests and across rugged beaches. This 3-hour 15-minute walk offers a more active way to experience Stewart Island’s natural environment.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on history and ecology, providing context for the landscapes you’re exploring. The small group size fosters a personalized experience, and reviews emphasize the guide’s familiarity with local customs and wildlife, like Sarah’s flora and fauna insights. The trip is suitable for travelers with moderate fitness levels who enjoy walking and exploring coastal landscapes.
At $122 per person, this tour offers a good value for those wanting a combination of physical activity and cultural stories. The only potential downside? A slightly longer time commitment and some uneven terrain, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a balanced mix of walking, storytelling, and scenery, this guided wilderness walk is a solid choice.
How to Choose
Picking the right tour depends on your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend on Stewart Island. If you prefer a quick, scenic overview, the Village and Bays Tour offers a relaxed introduction. Wildlife lovers should consider the Ulva Island Explorer for its birdwatching and marine scenery, while those eager to see kiwi in the wild will find the Wild Kiwi Experiences unforgettable. For active travelers wanting a mix of history and nature, the Guided Wilderness Walk offers a scenic, storytelling adventure.
Consider your budget and physical readiness—some tours like the kiwi encounter require walking in darkness and rugged terrain, whereas the village tour is more relaxed. Booking early is wise, especially in peak season, to secure your spot on these popular experiences.
In summary, Stewart Island Rakiura offers a diverse menu of tours that cater to all interests—whether it’s relaxing bays, birdwatching, nocturnal wildlife, or scenic walks. The key is to match your choice with your travel style and curiosity. With options for every budget and activity level, you’ll find plenty to explore and remember. Start planning now, and be sure to book early—these tours are popular for a reason.