Visit Stewart Island

3 days/2 nights: Ex Bluff

Minimum 2 to guarantee departure

Price is based on return ferry ex Bluff. Surcharge for Flights : From $120.00 per person.

Supplement applies to upgrade to Stewart Island Lodge.

Stewart Island is a true nature’s paradise and offers a special experience - a glimpse into a simpler, slower lifestyle, in rhythm with the sea and the tides. 85% of the island’s 1570 square kilometres is a National Park – Rakiura National Park. Stewart Island also has a Dark Sky Sanctuary accreditation by the International Dark Sky Association. Whether you want to enjoy the land, sea and night-scapes, view the wildlife, walk, boat, fish, dive, kayak, hunt or just relax - a Stewart Island holiday is an experience that you will treasure for ever and a must-do experience.

- Itinerary
- Accommodation
- Important Information Day 1: Bluff to Stewart Island

Your journey starts in Bluff where you will board the Ferry to Stewart Island. Experience Foveaux Strait onboard an express catamaran. During the one-hour crossing on the Stewart Island Ferry between Bluff and Oban keep a lookout for wildlife, especially seabirds. Comprehensive commentaries provide information on the interesting landmarks commonly seen, including Dog Island Lighthouse, Ruapuke Island, the Titi Islands and Mt Anglem - Stewart Island’s highest point. After crossing Foveaux Strait and arriving at Oban – the main settlement on Stewart Island you will be transferred to your accommodation. This afternoon explore Oban and the surrounding bays in a mini-bus tour. Experienced guides enjoy sharing their local knowledge of the history and environment of Stewart Island with you. Gain an insight into New Zealand’s southernmost community. Stewart Islanders are proud of their island, enjoying its simpler, slower pace. Highlights include Lee Bay, the gateway to Rakiura National Park and stunning views of Paterson Inlet from Observation Rock during this 1 hour 30 minute tour. Remainder of day at leisure. Day 2: Ulva Island Explorer & night time Kiwi spotting (B)

Ulva Island (Te Wharawhara), is renowned for its diverse and abundant birdlife with a forest dominated by Rimu, Southern Rata and Kamahi, surrounded by marine reserve. It was visited by Ngai Tahu Maori as part of their food gathering trips and in the 1890s it became one of New Zealand’s first reserves. This 267 hectare island is now predator free, allowing the bird and plantlife to thrive. Enjoy a leisurely cruise from Halfmoon Bay viewing hidden coves and unspoilt beaches. Along the way learn about the early Maori history and European settlement including whaling. Your skipper and nature guide provide detailed commentary throughout the cruise and are happy to answer any questions. While on board, keep a lookout for fur seals, penguins and other wildlife, as sightings are common. Then disembark at Ulva Island for a 45-minute guided walk with a specialist nature guide. View rare plants and rich birdlife, including the inquisitive weka, which are often seen on the beach. Returning to the motel in the afternoon.
This evening we are in for a real treat with a night time Kiwi Spotting Tour. The tour will commence 30 minutes after dark and will give you the ultimately special opportunity to experience kiwi in their natural environment. We have EXCLUSIVE ACCESS to private land where New Zealand’s precious kiwi come out at night to feed (weather dependent). Upgrade option to Wild Kiwi Encounter $80pp. Day 3: Stewart Island to Bluff (B)

Today it is time to depart this paradise island and return to real life. Board the catamaran and for your cruise across the Straight to Bluff. TOUR INCLUSIONS

- Stewart Island Return Ferry
- Two nights accommodation at your chosen accommodation including Continental Breakfast Daily (B)

Sightseeing includes:

- Stewart Island Return Ferry
- Orientation tour
- Ulva Island Guided Tour
- Night time Kiwi Spotting
- DOC Concessions where applicable included TOUR EXCLUSIONS

Domestic Air Fares, Additional /Optional Tour Costs, Hotel Mini Bar, Sightseeing/Meals not stated in Itinerary, Upgrade to Stewart Island Lodge, Upgrade to Kiwi Encounter $80.00 per person

Surcharge for Flights Bluff - Stewart Island return: From $120.00 per person

Accommodation based on the below or similar Stewart Island

Tourist Class - Bay Motel Stewart Island

With panoramic views of the Tasman Sea, Bay Motel overlooks Halfmoon Bay on Stewart Island. All units have views of Half Moon Bay or the surrounding bush. Enjoy the view from your balcony, listening to the local birdlife.

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