Stewart Island

STEWART ISLAND ACCOMMODATION | Stewart Island Apartments

STEWART ISLAND ACTIVITIES AND TRAVEL | Stewart Island Information

Stewart Island is the third-largest island of New Zealand, It lies across Foveaux Strait, 30 kilometres south of the South Island.

Stewart Island has clear, clean waters, a lush rainforest, sweeping sands, flora and fauna and unspoilt natural beauty. Around 85% of the island is a national park and there's only one settlement called Halfmoon Bay/Oban which offers a selection of accommodation.

Visitors come mostly to hike the well-preserved tracks. There are Department of Conservation huts that provide accommodation for overnight hikes. Also popular is Ulva Island, which is just offshore and a predator-free bird sanctuary. It is accessible by water taxi.

Whether you have come to enjoy the land and seascapes, see the wildlife, walk, boat, fish, dive, kayak, and hunt or just relax, a Stewart Island holiday will be unforgettable.

Stewart Island History

Captain Cook was the first European to sight the island in 1770, but he thought it was part of the South Island so named it South Cape. The island received its European name in honour of William W. Stewart, who was first officer on the ship Pegasus. In the Maori language, Stewart Island is known as Rakiura, which translates as 'the land of the glowing skies'.

Main Towns in the Southland Region

Other Towns in the Southland Region