Stewart Island Village & Bays Tour

Explore the untouched beauty of New Zealand’s southernmost community on a guided minibus tour through stunning coastal landscapes, Māori legends, and rich local history. With plenty of photo stops and short walks, this journey is the perfect introduction to Stewart Island.

Getting started

Meet your friendly local guide at the Oban Visitor Centre and hop aboard a modern minibus for a relaxed and comfortable ride.

What to expect

• Oban Township & surrounding bays: Begin your journey in Oban, the heart of Stewart Island, where you'll experience the charm of New Zealand's southernmost community. Take in the picturesque landscapes of Halfmoon Bay and Horseshoe Bay, each offering insights into the island's maritime heritage. ​

• Lee Bay & Rakiura National Park entrance: Visit Lee Bay, the official gateway to Rakiura National Park, which encompasses approximately 85% of Stewart Island. Check out the iconic chain sculpture, symbolizing the connection between Stewart Island (Rakiura) and the South Island (Te Waipounamu). ​

• Observation Rock: Ascend to Observation Rock, a renowned lookout point to get expansive views over Paterson Inlet and the island's diverse landscapes, from dense forests to serene waters. ​

• Local stories & legends: Throughout the tour, your local guide will share stories of Stewart Island's rich history and evolution over time.

• Photo stops & short walks: The tour includes several photo and walking stops, letting you step off the minibus and immerse yourself in the island's natural beauty.

Stewart Island Village & Bays Tour

Discover the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of Stewart Island on this 90-minute guided tour that includes a visit to Lee Bay, Observation Rock, and other scenic spots around Rakiura National Park. Your local expert guide shares Māori legends and island history as you explore the gateway to Rakiura National Park, see the iconic anchor chain sculpture symbolizing Stewart Island’s deep connection to the mainland, and enjoy panoramic views from Observation Rock overlooking Paterson Inlet and its surrounding islets. The tour covers 20 kilometers of scenic coastline and town areas, with comfortable transportation aboard a modern minibus equipped for accessibility needs. Audio guides are available in English and Te Reo Māori, catering to diverse audiences. This sightseeing experience includes stops at four key landmarks: Lee Bay, Observation Rock, the anchor chain sculpture, and Stewart Island Village itself.

Explore Lee Bay Gateway

Your tour stops at Lee Bay, the gateway to Rakiura National Park where you can see the iconic anchor chain sculpture symbolizing Stewart Island’s deep connection to the mainland. Established in 2014, this landmark spans 5 meters and is a significant cultural representation of Māori legend that tells how Stewart Island is the anchor stone of the South Island canoe (Te Waka o Aoraki). Visitors can spend around 30 minutes exploring the bay’s sandy shores and learning about its significance. Lee Bay stands out for its natural beauty and historical importance, making it a must-see stop on your tour.

Overlook Paterson Inlet from Observation Rock

At Observation Rock, guests can take in panoramic views of Paterson Inlet and the surrounding islets. This vantage point stands at approximately 100 meters above sea level and offers a breathtaking vista that encompasses miles of coastline and marine life. Observation Rock was an important lookout for early settlers who navigated these waters in the late 19th century. Visitors typically spend about 20 minutes here capturing photos and appreciating the stunning scenery. The rock’s unique position makes it one of the best spots on Stewart Island to observe wildlife such as seals, penguins, and various seabirds.

Tour Highlights

• Explore Māori legends at Lee Bay
• 90-minute guided tour with local expert
• Audio guides in English and Te Reo Māori
• Panoramic views from Observation Rock overlooking Paterson Inlet
• Comfortable minibus ride through Stewart Island’s scenic town and bays
• Gateway to Rakiura National Park at Lee Bay
• Unique anchor chain sculpture symbolizing island connection
• Scenic overlooks throughout the tour

Perfect for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and cultural explorers, this guided tour provides an immersive experience of Stewart Island’s natural beauty and rich heritage. The 90-minute format allows you to explore Lee Bay, enjoy panoramic views from Observation Rock, and learn about Māori legends at key landmarks, giving you a comprehensive understanding of the island's significance while enjoying its scenic bays.