Stewart Island: Nature, Sea and History

Stewart Island/Raikura brings together a large national park, protected areas on land and at sea, island trails and opportunities for wildlife watching. The differences between locations are important when planning your trip: Ulva Island/Te Wharawhara is known for its trails and birdlife; the marine reserve offers activities in the water, while Glory Cove provides an opportunity to see kiwi. The museum and visitor centre complement the nature themes with history and practical information.

National Park and Marine Reserve

Rakiura National Park covers 157,000 hectares and extends over 85% of Stewart Island/Raikura. The Ulva Island–Te Wharawhara Marine Reserve covers 1,075 hectares and was established in 2004. Its crystal-clear waters, with fish, penguins and kelp forests, offer opportunities for snorkelling, diving and kayaking. Protected landscapes and activities at sea are therefore both part of Stewart Island. On 3 January 2019, Stewart Island/Raikura was accredited as a Dark Sky Sanctuary by DarkSky International.

Ulva Island/Te Wharawhara

Ulva Island/Te Wharawhara lies off Stewart Island/Raikura in the Southland region. The publicly accessible island sanctuary is characterised by bushland and diverse birdlife. It is pest-free; visitors can see rare birds and plants up close. You can reach Ulva Island from Stewart Island/Raikura by boat from Halfmoon Bay or Golden Bay. Operators and timetables may change, so check the service in advance.

Trails and Lookouts

The well-maintained trails on Ulva Island are suitable for all ages and fitness levels. The Sydney Cove track is wheelchair-accessible as far as the beach. Flagstaff Point Lookout offers panoramic views back towards Stewart Island/Raikura. The trail destinations therefore differ significantly: one trail reaches the beach, while the lookout offers a view back towards the island.

Kiwi Watching at Glory Cove

Part of Glory Cove Scenic Reserve is a kiwi sanctuary. Visitors have the opportunity to see kiwi in the wild; access at night requires a permit. A water taxi to Glory Cove Scenic Reserve can be hired from the wharf at Golden Bay, from Oban. Operator availability may change, so check in advance.

Museum and Visitor Centre

Rakiura Museum displays exhibits on early Māori settlement, muttonbirding, whaling, fishing, timber milling, mining and boatbuilding, as well as transport, schools and churches. Individual exhibits may change. The topics combine natural and economic history with aspects of community life on Stewart Island.

The Rakiura National Park Visitor Centre provides information about short walks, multi-day treks and Ulva Island/Te Wharawhara. Opening arrangements may change; check before your visit.

More Walking Profiles in Southland

There are more walking profiles in the wider Southland destination. The Milford Track can only be walked in one direction, over three nights and four days. The Hump Ridge Track is a three-day loop walk over subalpine heights and along a rugged coastline in southern Fiordland, Southland.

Discover more destinations: Milford Sound, Athol, Monowai, Manapouri, Lumsden, The Key, Nightcaps, Papatotara

Back to the wider travel overview: Southland District.