Stewart Island / Rakiura , New Zealand

Stewart Island Wild Kiwi Experiences

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(67 reviews)

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About this experience

Stewart Island Wild Kiwi Encounters
Experience the magic of Rakiura/Stewart Island on an unforgettable evening adventure. Begin with a scenic cruise around nearby islands (weather permitting), spotting rare seabirds and marine life like albatross, penguins, and fur seals. As dusk falls, arrive at your kiwi-spotting destination for a guided walk under the stars.

Choose from two unique experiences:

Wild Kiwi Encounter: Journey through coastal forest and along a secluded beach by torchlight in search of the elusive tokoeka (southern brown kiwi).

Wild Kiwi & Culture Encounter: Explore Oneke, a culturally rich area known as “The Neck,” where you’ll hear stories of Māori and European heritage before your kiwi search. End the night with a warm drink in a traditional whare (Māori building) before cruising back to Oban.

Important Info: Approx. 2 hours of walking required. Tracks may be muddy or uneven—sturdy footwear and warm, waterproof clothing are essential.

Available options

Wild Kiwi & Culture Departures

Wild Kiwi + Culture: Discover Oneke’s rich Māori and European heritage as day fades to night, with stories, stunning coastal views, and wild kiwi

Wild Kiwi Departures

Wild Kiwi: Sunset cruise spotting rare marine life, then take a guided walk through forest and along the beach to search for wild kiwi

What's included

Complimentary tea and coffee on board return scenic cruise

Detailed itinerary

Check in at the Ferry Terminal

Stewart Island Wild Kiwi Encounters

Join us for an unforgettable evening exploring Rakiura/Stewart Island’s wildlife and culture. Begin with a scenic cruise spotting rare seabirds and marine life before arriving at your kiwi-spotting location. On the Wild Kiwi Encounter, enjoy a guided torchlit walk through forest and beach to search for the elusive tokoeka (southern brown kiwi).

Or choose the Wild Kiwi & Culture Encounter at Oneke, where you’ll hear stories of Māori and European heritage before your kiwi search, finishing with a warm drink in a traditional whare.

Note: Moderate fitness required (approx. 2 hrs walking). Tracks may be muddy or uneven—wear sturdy footwear and dress warmly.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.6

9 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.7

58 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Important information

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Not suitable for children under 16 years

A reasonable level of fitness is required

Meeting point

Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled departure time.

Important notes

Please contact RealNZ 48 hours prior to departure to confirm your trip.

What to bring:
Sturdy walking shoes/boots (up to approximately 2 hours walking on uneven and muddy tracks)
Waterproof jacket (kiwis are very sensitive to noise so please wear a soft, quiet option where possible)
Warm sweater/fleece jacket
Insect repellent
Camera (although no flash photography is allowed around the kiwi)

About Stewart Island / Rakiura

Stewart Island, also known as Rakiura in Māori, is the third-largest island of New Zealand. Known for its pristine wilderness, rich Māori heritage, and exceptional birdwatching opportunities, it offers a tranquil escape with a focus on nature and adventure. The island is the perfect destination for those seeking a remote, untouched natural environment.

Top Attractions

Rakiura Track

The Rakiura Track is a 30 km (19 mi) loop track that takes 2-3 days to complete. It offers stunning views of the island's diverse landscapes, including forests, beaches, and coastal cliffs. The track is known for its exceptional birdwatching opportunities.

Nature 2-3 days Free, but permits are required and can be booked in advance

Ulva Island / Te Wharawhara

Ulva Island is a predator-free wildlife sanctuary known for its rare and endangered bird species. Visitors can take a short ferry ride from Stewart Island to explore the island's lush forests and coastal areas.

Nature Half-day to full day Ferry ride and guided tours available for a fee

Paterson Inlet

Paterson Inlet is a large, scenic inlet that offers excellent opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The inlet is home to a variety of bird species and marine life.

Nature Half-day to full day Free, but guided tours and kayak rentals are available for a fee

Stewart Island / Rakiura Museum

The Stewart Island / Rakiura Museum offers a glimpse into the island's rich history, including its Māori heritage, early settlement, and natural history. The museum features a variety of exhibits and artifacts.

Historical 1-2 hours Moderate entry fee

Must-Try Local Dishes

Blue Cod

A local delicacy, blue cod is often served fresh and grilled, with a delicate flavor and firm texture.

Main Course Gluten-free, can be prepared to be dairy-free and vegetarian-friendly

Kawakawa Bay Oysters

Fresh oysters from the local waters, often served with a variety of sauces and accompaniments.

Appetizer Gluten-free, can be prepared to be dairy-free and vegetarian-friendly

Stewart Island Crab

A local delicacy, often served in a variety of dishes, including chowders, salads, and grilled preparations.

Main Course Gluten-free, can be prepared to be dairy-free and vegetarian-friendly

Māori-inspired dishes

Local restaurants often feature dishes inspired by Māori cuisine, using traditional ingredients and cooking methods.

Various Varies by dish, often gluten-free and dairy-free options available

Popular Activities

Hiking Kayaking Fishing Wildlife viewing Beachcombing Scenic walks Birdwatching Māori cultural experiences

Best Time to Visit

December to February (Summer)

Summer is the best time to visit Stewart Island for warm weather and longer daylight hours. This is the peak tourist season with the most activities and events available. The island is lush and green, and the weather is generally more stable.

12°C to 18°C 54°F to 64°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Māori
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Time Zone

NZST (UTC+12) or NZDT (UTC+13) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Stewart Island is generally a safe destination, but visitors should be aware of the remote and sometimes unpredictable nature of the environment. The island has limited medical facilities and services, so it's important to be prepared for emergencies.

Important Precautions:

• Be prepared for changing weather conditions
• Carry a map and compass, as cell phone coverage can be limited
• Respect the local wildlife and environment

Getting there

By air

Halfmoon Bay (Kawakawa Bay) Airstrip • 5 km from Halfmoon Bay

Getting around

Public transport

The shuttle service is available for tours and transfers, but public transport is not extensive. Walking and biking are the most common ways to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps:

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Halfmoon Bay (Kawakawa Bay) Oban Lee Bay

Day trips

Codfish Island / Whenua Hou

10 km (6 mi) from Halfmoon Bay • Half-day to full day

Codfish Island is a predator-free wildlife sanctuary known for its rare and endangered bird species, including the kakapo, a critically endangered parrot.

Ruapuke Island

30 km (19 mi) from Halfmoon Bay • Full day

Ruapuke Island is a remote and scenic island known for its beautiful beaches, lush forests, and rich Māori history.

Festivals

Rakiura Festival • March (dates vary)

Pro tips

Book accommodations and activities in advance, especially during peak season
Be prepared for changing weather conditions and have appropriate gear and clothing
Respect the local environment and wildlife, and be mindful of the island's remote and sometimes unpredictable nature
Learn a few basic phrases in Māori to show respect for the local culture and heritage
Bring a map and compass, as cell phone coverage can be limited in remote areas