Stewart Island Guided Wilderness Walk

Explore Stewart Island's wild landscapes on this guided wilderness walk through ancient forests, rugged coastlines, and rich Māori heritage. With plenty of wildlife encounters and insightful storytelling, this journey is the perfect introduction to the island’s natural beauty and cultural history.

Getting started

Check in at the ferry terminal in Oban, just a 5-minute walk from the main road. Here, you’ll meet your expert guide before setting sail for Oneke on a comfortable catamaran.

What to expect

• Scenic cruise to Oneke: Begin with a sea journey across the pristine waters of Stewart Island. Along the way, soak in panoramic views of the coastline and keep an eye out for seabirds and marine life.

• Guided coastal & forest walk: Step onto Oneke and venture through the lush forest, sweeping coastal dunes, and rugged shorelines. Your guide will point out native plants, rare birds, and tell stories of the land’s past.

• Māori & European history: Learn about the cultural heritage and ancient traditions of Oneke, from its significance in Māori history to its role in early European settlement..

• Wildlife spotting: From curious Weka to nesting seabirds, your guide will share insights into the island’s unique ecosystem and how local conservation projects are protecting it.

• Return sea cruise to Oban: Wrap up your adventure with a relaxing cruise back to Oban, reflecting on your experience while enjoying the stunning Stewart Island waters.

Stewart Island Guided Wilderness Walk

Discover the wild beauty of Stewart Island on this guided wilderness walk that includes a scenic cruise, forest and coastal walks, exclusive access to Oneke, and incredible wildlife sightings. The tour covers approximately 7 kilometers across diverse landscapes, lasts for about 5 hours, offers audio guides in English and Te Reo Māori, and provides guests with an immersive experience of the island's rich ecology and history. Highlights include a boat ride to 'The Neck,' a guided trek through native forests and along pristine beaches, and opportunities to spot rare bird species such as kiwis and tuis. The tour is accessible for all ages and fitness levels, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the natural wonders of Stewart Island.

Explore Oneke with Scenic Cruise

Your tour stops at 'The Neck,' a narrow strip of land between ocean waters on Stewart Island where you will embark on a scenic cruise. The boat ride covers approximately 15 kilometers and takes around 40 minutes, providing guests with stunning views of the surrounding coastline and marine life. Oneke is historically rich, dating back to the early 20th century when it was used as a whaling station; today, it remains largely untouched by modern development. Visitors spend about an hour exploring this remote area, learning from their expert guide about the Māori and European history that shaped the region's cultural landscape. Unique features include ancient Māori settlement sites and remnants of early European structures, making 'The Neck' a place of significant historical importance compared to other parts of Stewart Island.

Trek Across Coastal Trails

At Oneke’s coastal trails, guests can walk through diverse ecosystems that span over 200 acres. The guided trek covers approximately 5 kilometers and takes around 2 hours, allowing visitors ample time to observe native flora and fauna up close. Key features include towering rimu trees reaching heights of up to 40 meters, pristine sand beaches stretching for nearly a mile, and dense coastal forest areas teeming with wildlife. Historical facts reveal that the area was first documented by European explorers in 1856, while Māori presence dates back centuries earlier. Visitors spend about an hour trekking across these trails, gaining insight into the ecological significance of 'The Neck,' which is home to numerous endangered species.

Discover Native Wildlife

Your tour includes exclusive access to wildlife observation points where you can spot native bird species such as kiwis and tuis. The guided walk covers approximately 7 kilometers across diverse landscapes, including coastal beaches and dense forests, with opportunities for guests to spend about an hour observing these unique creatures in their natural habitat. Key features include a boardwalk that stretches nearly half a mile along the coastline and provides unobstructed views of marine life such as penguins and seals. This area is particularly significant due to its role in conservation efforts since 1980, making it one of the few places where visitors can witness rare bird species thriving amidst protected environments.

Tour Highlights

• Scenic cruise at Oneke
• Coastal and forest trails walk with expert guide
• Audio guides in English and Te Reo Māori
• Wildlife sightings including kiwis and tuis
• Exclusive access to historic sites along The Neck
• Immersive learning experience covering ecology and history
• Access to pristine beaches stretching nearly a mile
• Observation points for marine life such as penguins and seals

Perfect for nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and wildlife lovers, this guided wilderness walk provides an immersive experience of Stewart Island's rich ecological landscape and cultural heritage. The 5-hour format allows you to explore 'The Neck,' trek through native forests, and observe rare bird species, giving you a comprehensive understanding of the island’s natural wonders while enjoying exclusive access to historically significant sites.