Wild Kiwi Encounter on Stewart Island
Certified Sustainable PartnerWild Kiwi Encounter on Stewart Island
- Scenic catamaran cruise from Halfmoon Bay
- Pass predator-free Ulva Island en route
- Guided torchlight walk through native forest
- Spot Southern Brown Kiwi on Ocean Beach
- Small group, max 16 per night
- Returns late, so book ferry and accommodation
Wild Kiwi and Culture Encounter
- Evening cruise to culturally rich Oneke
- Hear Māori and European stories from guide
- Guided forest walk at dusk by torchlight
- Search for Southern Brown Kiwi after dark
- Relax with warm drink in Māori whare
- Around 2 hours walking, moderate fitness needed
What to expect
Wild Kiwi Encounter Cruise from Halfmoon Bay across Paterson Inlet, passing Ulva Island as your guide shares Stewart Island’s history. Disembark at Little Glory Cove and walk through native forest as night falls. Reach Ocean Beach, where the Southern brown kiwi (Rakiura Tokoeka) often forages along the shoreline. After observing these nocturnal birds, return through the forest to the wharf for your catamaran ride back to Oban.
Wild Kiwi & Culture Encounter Begin with a scenic cruise to Oneke, a peninsula rich in heritage and landscapes. Hear stories of Māori and European history before walking into coastal forest at dusk.Search for the Southern brown kiwi (Rakiura Tokoeka) as night falls, then relax inside a traditional Māori whare with a warm drink before cruising back to Oban.
