Stewart Island, or Rakiura (glowing skies) as it is known to the Maori, is one of
NZ’s least explored eco-tourism destinations. Granite-based with high rocky outcrops
it offers a mix of deep clear bays, white sandy beaches and towering emerald-green
rainforest.
stewart island
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An ecological wonderland, three-quarters of the island is part of the Rakiura National
Park. As the fourth largest park in NZ, it boasts some 157,000 hectares which teem
with wildlife. The island is a paradise for trampers and nature lovers, offering
many visitors the rare privilege of an unexpected rendezvous with a kiwi.
There are around 20,000 Stewart Island kiwi on the island. One of the larger species
of this flightless bird, they are often seen foraging in the forest or hunting for
sand hoppers on the beach. For those who do not come across one on their travels,
kiwi-spotting night tours are available. Places are limited so it’s best to book
in advance.
Stewart Island is also popular with birdwatchers because it has the largest and
most diverse bird population in NZ, from the vividly feathered kaka and parakeet
to the tui and bellbird with their melodic calls. Seabirds abound: there are several
species of albatross and five types of penguin, including the tiny blue penguin
and the rare yellow-eyed penguin – to name just a few! Ulva Island, a short boat
ride from Stewart Island, is a pest-free open sanctuary where visitors can view
and learn about many species that don’t thrive well on the mainland islands due
to pests such as stoats, rats, and feral cats. The Stewart Island robin, South Island
saddleback and the mohua (or yellowhead) are some of the rare birds likely to be
encountered. The weka – often mistaken for kiwi – is prolific and these friendly
birds usually provide a welcome committee. Day trips to Ulva Island can be organised
at the Visitors’ Centre in Oban.
Stewart Island’s DOC Visitors’ Centre provides information on the island’s network
of hiking trails. There’s a number of short hikes which range from 15 minutes to
seven hours as well as several longer tramps which journey across the island through
ancient podocarp forests of rimu, miro, southern kamahi and a dense carpet of ferns.
The 36-kilometre Rakiura Track is extremely popular. It’s one of NZ’s Great Walks
and can be covered in three days. It crosses the sheltered shores of Paterson Inlet
and features historical sites and a mix of forest and open coast...
please click the link to download the full Stewart Island scenic drive, courtesy of apex car rentals
new zealand... the kiwi way
to read more extracts from our driving holiday's guidebook please click on any of
the following links:
north island scenic drives
south island scenic drives
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please click here (RRP $24.95 plus postage)
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