Ulva Island (Te Wharawhara)

Overview

Ulva Island (Te Wharawhara) is a predator-free wildlife sanctuary located in Paterson Inlet on Stewart Island. It is renowned for its native birdlife and lush vegetation, offering a unique opportunity for birdwatching and nature walks.

Ulva Island is significant for its conservation efforts and as a habitat for rare and endangered bird species.

Wildlife Sanctuary Nature Reserve

Location

Address

Southland

Neighborhood: Rakiura National Park

Coordinates

-46.866700, 168.066700

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

tuesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

wednesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

thursday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

friday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

saturday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

sunday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$20

Children

$10

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

September-May

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds and more active birdlife

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

3 hours

Full Experience

full day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild

• native birds nesting

summer

warm

• extended daylight hours

autumn

cool

• fall colors

winter

cool

• migratory birds

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book ahead
Bring ID
Check weather

What to Bring

essential

ID water tickets

seasonal

jacket umbrella

not allowed

pets drones

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate

• uneven paths

Medical facilities: first aid available

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, cards

Currency

New Zealand Dollar

Typical Costs

entry $20

parking $10

food $15

souvenirs $20

Dress Code

casual, comfortable shoes, walking shoes, inappropriate clothing

Booking Tips

• 2 weeks
• official website
• 48 hours
• available

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Ulva Island App

Size: 50 MB

Features: Map, Audio guide, Tickets

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center

Charging Stations: Rest areas

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Invercargill Airport

Distance: 100 km

Travel Time: 2 hours

taxi

$150 2 hours

public_transport

$25 3 hours

From City Center

Distance: 5 km

metro

$2 15 min

bus

$1.50 20 min

taxi

$10 10 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Unique wildlife and peaceful environment

Historical Significance: Important for conservation and native bird species

Insider Tips

Free entry early morning
Best food at back entrance

Local Recommendations

• Try local cafe
• Ask for guide John

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Kia ora

thank_you Kei te pehea koe

where_is Kei hea

how_much He aha te utu

beautiful Hauhake

ticket Tikiti

Guide Languages: English, Spanish, French

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Main entrance

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Low angle

Result: Great shot

#UlvaIsland #NewZealand

Photography Rules

allowed areas outdoor areas

prohibited areas sensitive bird nesting areas

flash photography not allowed

commercial photography permit needed

drone policy prohibited

tripod policy restricted

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Stewart Island Museum

Distance: 500m

Walking: 7 min

Type: Museum

Rakiura Track

Distance: 1km

Walking: 15 min

Type: Hiking Trail

Reviews

4.5

Based on 1,000 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

"Book online"
"Visit early"
"Great views"

Contact Information

+64 3 219 1099

info@ulva.island.nz

www.ulva.island.nz

Social Media

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