Are there discounted tickets for children?

Yes, child fares apply on ferries and most guided tours. Prices vary by tour type and age group; check individual ticket details before booking.

How much do Stewart Island tours cost?

Prices depend on inclusions. Ferry-only tickets are the most affordable, while guided wildlife and combo tours cost more but include transport and activities.

What are the top attractions on Stewart Island?

Highlights include Oban Village, Ulva Island’s predator-free sanctuary, Paterson Inlet, evening kiwi encounters, and sections of the Rakiura Track.

Where do tours start and end?

Most tours begin in Oban, near the ferry terminal. Ulva Island and inlet cruises depart from nearby jetties.

How long do tours last?

Experiences range from 2–3 hours to full-day tours. Evening kiwi encounters typically last around 4–5 hours, including ferry connections.

Is Stewart Island wheelchair accessible?

Oban and some waterfront areas are accessible, but most nature walks and wildlife areas involve uneven terrain and are not wheelchair-friendly.

Can I stay overnight on Stewart Island?

Yes. Stewart Island accommodation includes lodges, B&Bs, and holiday homes around Oban. Staying overnight is ideal for evening kiwi tours and early walks.

How do ferries fit into tour planning?

Stewart Island ferries run between Bluff and Oban and are the main transport link. Many guided tours include return ferry tickets to simplify scheduling.

Are there activities beyond guided tours?

Yes. Visitors can explore short coastal walks, walk parts of the Rakiura Track, kayak Paterson Inlet, or relax in Oban between tours.

Stewart Island Tours

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Ferry Tickets

Stewart Island Ferry

Cross Foveaux Strait in a fast ferry—coastal views, expert commentary & a hot drink onboard.

Starting point: Stewart Island Experience Visitor Terminal at 21 Foreshore Road, Bluff
Everything you get: Fast and comfortable one-way ferry transfer between Bluff and Stewart Island on an express catamaran. Local wildlife spotting, including albatross, as you cross Foveaux Strait, live commentary highlighting notable landmarks such as Dog Island Lighthouse & Ruapuke Island.
Sights covered: Sail past Dog Island Lighthouse, home to New Zealand’s tallest lighthouse, the Titi Islands (famous for muttonbirding), and Mount Anglem—Stewart Island’s highest point.
Why choose this: Experience a smooth ferry service connecting Bluff and Stewart Island. Unlike a flight, this journey comes with breathtaking ocean views, unique wildlife sightings, and insights into the region’s history—all while traveling comfortably.
Upgrade: Book Book a return ferry to Bluff and skip the hassle of arranging transport separately. Enjoy the scenic beauty of Foveaux Strait twice, spot more wildlife, and take in changing coastal views on a seamless return journey.

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Flexible cancellation

Book now, pay later

1 hr

Transfers available

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Combos

Combo (Save 6%): Stewart Island Round Trip Ferry Tickets

Experience Stewart Island’s wild beauty both ways, scenic ferry rides, wildlife, and live commentary.

Everything you get from Stewart Island to Bluff Ferry: Board a fast catamaran for a one-hour crossing of Foveaux Strait, with live commentary, hot drinks, and the chance to spot albatross and local landmarks like Dog Island Lighthouse and Mount Anglem.
Everything you get from Bluff to Stewart Island Ferry: Enjoy a smooth, year-round ferry transfer with commentary, panoramic coastal views, wildlife sightings, and a hot drink as you sail past the Titi Islands and Ruapuke Island.
Why choose this combo: Travel between Bluff and Stewart Island in both directions, see unique scenery, local stories, and wildlife, all in one easy booking.

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Flexible cancellation

1 hr

Transfers available

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Guided Tours

From Stewart Island: Ulva Island Explorer Tour with Paterson Inlet Cruise

Cruise Paterson Inlet, spot rare birds on Ulva Island, and enjoy a guided nature walk.

Everything you get: Sail through Paterson Inlet’s hidden coves and beaches on a catamaran. Watch out for fur seals and little blue penguins before stepping onto predator-free Ulva Island. Walk through rainforest with your guide, spotting weka, saddlebacks, yellowheads, and the Stewart Island robin.
Why choose this: This tour blends a scenic cruise with a guided island walk, where you’ll spot rare birds and marine wildlife.

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2 hrs 30 mins

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Guided Tours

Stewart Island Village & Bays Tour

See Stewart Island like a local with hidden bays, native wildlife & Māori legends.

Everything you get: Guided tour of Stewart Island in a comfortable minibus, with local guide. Explore Oban township, stop for photos at scenic bays, and take short walks that take in the Rakiura National Park.
Why choose this: Escape city life and experience the untouched beauty of Stewart Island. Unlike standard sightseeing tours, this journey offers an insider’s perspective into Māori legends and local history.

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1 hr 30 mins

Not sure which Stewart Island tour to pick?

Half-day trips give you a taste of the island, including Ulva Island or village tours. Full-day options include kiwi spotting, guided walks, and scenic cruises. Compare tours to match your time, activity level, and wildlife interests.

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Combos

Combo (Save 5%): Stewart Island Ferry + Stewart Island Wild Kiwi Encounter

Experience Stewart Island in a day: scenic ferry ride & wild kiwi spotting with expert guides.

Everything you get at Stewart Island ferry: One-way ferry transfer from Bluff to Stewart Island. Enjoy live commentary during the journey, with scenic views of Foveaux Strait. Complimentary coffee or tea is provided onboard for a relaxing start to your adventure.
Everything you get at Stewart Island kiwi encounter: 4–4.5 hour guided wildlife experience on Stewart Island. Cruise from Oban to Little Glory Cove at sunset, spot kiwi birds in their natural habitat, and return to Oban. Enjoy complimentary hot beverages onboard while your expert nature guide shares insights about the island’s wildlife and conservation efforts.
Why choose this combo: See Stewart Island hassle-free — seamless ferry transport plus a guided kiwi wildlife encounter. Perfect for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and anyone seeking a unique New Zealand adventure

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Flexible cancellation

1 hr - 4 hrs 30 mins

Guided tour

Transfers available

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Sightseeing Cruises

Stewart Island Wild Kiwi Encounter

Evening wildlife adventure: kiwi spotting & sunset marine cruise on a 4–4.5 hour guided tour.

Everything you get: 4 to 4.5-hour evening adventure with a sunset marine cruise from Oban to Little Glory Cove. A guided 2-hour walk through forest and along the beach, led by an guide, in search of the elusive southern brown kiwi (Rakiura tokoeka). The tour includes a return cruise to Oban and hot beverages onboard.
Why choose this: It’s the ultimate Stewart Island evening for wildlife lovers; spot kiwis in their natural habitat and cruise through scenic waters at sunset, all in one tour.
Upgrades: Choose the Wild Kiwi & Cultural Experience at Oneke for Māori and European heritage storytelling and a warm drink in a traditional Māori whare, creating a true wildlife and cultural adventure.

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4 hrs - 4 hrs 30 mins

Guided tour

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Combos

Combo (Save 10%): Stewart Island Ferry & Wild Kiwi Encounter Experience

Journey to New Zealand’s southernmost island, then set out in search of its most iconic wildlife after dark.

Everything you get with the Stewart Island Ferry: Enjoy round-trip ferry transfers between Bluff and Stewart Island aboard a comfortable catamaran. Relax during the scenic crossing with live onboard commentary sharing insights into the region’s history, landmarks, and wildlife, plus complimentary tea or coffee served onboard.
Everything you get with the Stewart Island Wild Kiwi Experience: Join a 4 to 4.5-hour guided wildlife adventure featuring a sunset cruise from Oban to Little Glory Cove and a guided 2-hour evening and night walk in search of Stewart Island’s wild kiwi population. Your experience includes kiwi spotting opportunities, return cruise transfers between Oban and Little Glory Cove, an expert nature guide, and complimentary hot beverages onboard.
Why choose this combo: Combine the essential transport to Stewart Island with one of its most sought-after wildlife experiences. By day, enjoy a scenic journey across Foveaux Strait; by night, venture into remote native bush for a rare opportunity to spot kiwi in their natural habitat, creating the ultimate Stewart Island adventure.

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Check availability

Flexible cancellation

1 hr - 4 hrs 30 mins

Guided tour

Transfers available

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Walking Tours

Stewart Island Guided Wilderness Walk

Escape to Oneke—coastal walks, remote landscapes, fascinating stories & wildlife encounters.

Everything you get: Sea cruise to Oneke, a remote part of Rakiura Stewart Island. With exclusive access, explore coastal and forest trails on a guided half-day walk. Learn about local conservation efforts, spot native wildlife, and hear Māori and European stories from your guide.
Why choose this: Explore a remote part of Stewart Island that few get to see. With exclusive access, expert guidance, and stunning coastal scenery, this experience blends history, nature, and wildlife in a truly unforgettable way.

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Flexible cancellation

Book now, pay later

3 hrs 15 mins

Guided tour

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How Headout makes choosing experiences effortless

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Every supplier is vetted for quality, reliability, and value so you only get top rated experiences. No surprises, no disappointments.

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Each experience is thoughtfully organised to give you maximum availability, great value and an easy way to choose.

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Slide 1 of 4

Quick overview

Ways to explore: Guided day trips, half-day walks, evening kiwi tours, ferry-only travel, overnight stays, and sections of the Rakiura Track.
Ferries & access: Stewart Island ferries operate between Bluff and Oban and set the rhythm for most tours; guided packages usually align activities with sailing times.
Accommodation: Lodges, B&Bs, and holiday homes are centred around Oban, making overnight stays easy for early walks, kiwi tours, and Great Walk access.
Additional access: Ulva Island predator-free sanctuary, Paterson Inlet cruises, night wildlife tours, and coastal entry points to the Rakiura Track.
Unique experiences: Small-group guided walks (typically ≤15 guests), wildlife-focused outings, stargazing, and low-crowd Great Walk scenery.
Queues & timing: Guided tours manage ferry schedules and transfers; self-guided travellers may face 30-60 minute waits during peak sailings.
When to book: Summer dates and weekends fill quickly; ferries, tours, and accommodation should be booked well in advance.
Good to know: Experiences last 2-6+ hours, depend on weather, involve moderate walking, and may include uneven or muddy terrain.
Best upgrade: A full-day guided experience combining Ulva Island with an evening kiwi encounter.

Which Stewart Island tour is best for you?

Ticket type	Duration	Inclusions	Transfers included/type	Best suited for	Upgrades/add-ons	Book now
Stewart Island Ferry (one-way)	~1 hr	One-way ferry across Foveaux Strait with live commentary & complimentary hot drink	Ferry transfer (catamaran) from Bluff to Stewart Island	Travellers who just need transport + views	Return ferry option	from NZ$135
Round-trip Stewart Island Ferry	~2 hrs total	Return ferry with commentary & hot drinks	Round-trip ferry	Comfortable transport & scenic crossings	-	from NZ$270
Stewart Island Village & Bays Tour	1 hr 30 min	Guided minibus tour around Oban, scenic bays, and short walks	On-island minibus	First-timers & scenic intro	-	from NZ$59
Stewart Island Wild Kiwi Encounter	4–4.5 hrs	Sunset marine cruise, guided night walk into the bush + kiwi spotting	Return cruise from Oban	Wildlife lovers & evening experiences	Cultural Experience at Oneke	from NZ$259
Ulva Island Explorer Tour with Paterson Inlet Cruise	~2 hr 30 min	Paterson Inlet scenic cruise + guided walk on Ulva Island with wildlife spotting	Cruise from Oban	Nature & birdwatching seekers	-	from NZ$145
Stewart Island Guided Wilderness Walk	~3 hr 15 min	Cruise to Oneke + coastal & forest guided walk with wildlife + interpretations	Cruise from Oban	Explorers & hikers looking for off-beaten paths	-	from NZ$199
Stewart Island Ferry + Stewart Island Wild Kiwi Encounter	5 hr	Kiwi spotting + Sunset marine cruise + Complimentary hot beverages + 2-hour evening & night walk	Ferry transfer + round-trip cruise from Oban to Little Glory Cove	Time-limited wildlife lovers seeking a guided kiwi encounter.	-	from NZ$394

What to expect at Stewart Island

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Stewart Island ferries

Ferry schedules between Bluff and Oban determine arrival and departure times. Guided tours are planned around these crossings to maximise time on the island.

Stewart Island accommodation

Most stays are in or near Oban, within walking distance of tours and the ferry terminal. Staying overnight allows access to evening kiwi encounters and early wildlife activity.

Getting around

There is minimal road access. Movement is mainly on foot, by water taxi, or via guided transport included in tours.

Tour pace and structure

Experiences run in small groups with flexible pacing based on weather, tides, and wildlife conditions.

Length of stay

Visitors can choose short guided highlights or extend their visit to include wildlife tours and sections of the Rakiura Track.

Things to know before booking your Stewart Island tour

Why choose a tour: By choosing a day trip to Stewart Island, you can experience its wildlife, coastal scenery, and native forest without planning overnight stays. Most guided day trips include ferry crossings and on-island transport, making them a convenient option if you want a well-organised visit without managing ferry schedules and local logistics yourself.
Stewart Island ferries: Ferries run between Bluff and Stewart Island (Oban) and form the main transport link to the island. Return ferry tickets are commonly included with guided tours, helping you align arrival and departure times without worrying about weather or schedule changes.
Tour types: You can book ferry-only tickets as one-way, round-trip crossings between Bluff and Stewart Island, or choose guided experiences such as the Village & Bays Tour , Ulva Island Explorer with Paterson Inlet cruise,Wild Kiwi Encounter with an option to upgrade with a cultural experience or a Guided Wilderness Walk.
Combo tours: Combo tickets bundle the return ferry with the Wild Kiwi Encounter at a discounted rate. The Ferry + Wild Kiwi Encounter option offers a seamless, time-efficient way to combine transport with a premium guided experience while avoiding multiple bookings.
Meals: Meals are generally not included in Stewart Island tours, giving you the flexibility to dine in Oban before or after activities.
Transfers: Ferry tickets include the scenic Foveaux Strait crossing from Bluff, while guided tours on Stewart Island include either on-island minibus transport or boat cruises as part of the experience. Choosing tours with transfers included helps avoid timing issues and ensures smooth connections between activities.
Accommodation: Stewart Island accommodation is concentrated around Oban, with lodges, B&Bs, and holiday homes suited to overnight stays. Staying overnight is useful if you plan evening kiwi tours or early-morning walks.

Explore Stewart Island

Tourists disembarking from boat at Ulva Island, New Zealand, surrounded by lush greenery.

Guided visit to a predator-free sanctuary with flat tracks, native forest, and abundant birdlife.

Oban town sign with waterfront view, Stewart Island, New Zealand.

Easy exploration of Oban, harbour viewpoints, and coastal landmarks with local history.

Explorers with flashlights in a dark forest during a kiwi encounter tour on Stewart Island.

Night walk with expert guides focused on spotting wild kiwi and nocturnal species.

Tourists on a boat in Stewart Island view the lush, tree-covered shoreline.

Boat cruise through sheltered bays and islands, with seabirds, marine life, and commentary.

Woman kayaking on a yellow kayak in the ocean under a clear blue sky.

Guided paddling in calm coves and Halfmoon Bay, offering close-up coastal views.

People walking on a beach during Stewart Island Guided Wilderness Walk.

Sections or full Great Walk showcasing forest, beaches, and remote wilderness.

What to see at Stewart Island

Ulva Island

A predator-free sanctuary with dense native forest, birdsong-filled trails, and close-up encounters with rare birds like kākā and tīeke.

Tourists on a boat at sunset on Stewart Island watching the coastline and sky.

Halfmoon Bay view with boats and lush greenery, Stewart Island, New Zealand.

Coastal landscape of Rakiura National Park, Stewart Island, with rolling hills and ocean view.

Group exploring forest on Stewart Island guided wilderness walk.

Plan your visit to Stewart Island

Rocky outcrop with seabirds at sunset on Stewart Island, New Zealand.

Ferry departures from Bluff: Daily
Guided tours: Typically start 9:00–10:00 am, last 2–6+ hours.
Evening kiwi tours: Start after dusk, seasonal.
Best time of day: Morning for quieter walks, late afternoon for golden light photography.
Best season: Summer (Dec–Feb) for milder weather; winter is quieter but cooler, rainier.

Here's more about Ferry timings at Stewart Island.

Crew assisting tourists boarding the Stewart Island Ferry.

Oban Wharf / Ferry Terminal

Best for: All visitors
Access notes: Scan your QR code at boarding. Most guided tours and ferry services depart and meet at the wharf.

Special Group / Kiwi Tour Entry

Best for: Evening and night wildlife tours
Access notes: Entry is organised in small groups. Follow your booking instructions for meeting points and check-in times.

Security check: Standard ferry and tour boarding procedures apply. Arrive early to allow time for ticket checks and boarding formalities.

Kids washing hands at sinks in a public washroom.

Toilets and freshwater at Oban
Ranger huts and seating on Ulva Island trails
Maps provided with guided tours
Limited WiFi; mobile coverage is patchy

Woman with baby stroller in a park, checking phone.

Uneven terrain and boardwalks; not fully wheelchair accessible
Suitable for children with supervision; night tours may not suit those under 6
Stroller-friendly on village trails, limited on remote paths

Guided group walking on Stewart Island beach during wilderness tour.

Book ferries and tours in advance during peak summer
Dress in layers; the weather changes quickly
Take binoculars for wildlife spotting
Respect wildlife; kiwi sightings require silence and slow movement
Start early for the best light and minimal crowds

Two people relaxing in a bunk bed at Homestay Cave Hostel.

Stewart Island accommodation is centred in Oban, close to the ferry terminal and tour meeting points.
Options include budget lodges, backpackers, motels, hotels, and self-contained cottages.
Most places to stay are within easy walking distance of tours, cafés, and the ferry terminal.
Staying overnight allows access to evening kiwi encounters and night tours.
Accommodation is limited, especially in summer, so booking ahead is strongly recommended.

Frequently asked questions about Stewart Island tours

You can book ferry-only tickets (one-way or return), guided day tours, wildlife experiences, or combo tickets that bundle ferries with activities like the Wild Kiwi Encounter.

Stewart Island Tours

Stewart Island Ferry

Combo (Save 6%): Stewart Island Round Trip Ferry Tickets

From Stewart Island: Ulva Island Explorer Tour with Paterson Inlet Cruise

Stewart Island Village & Bays Tour

Combo (Save 5%): Stewart Island Ferry + Stewart Island Wild Kiwi Encounter

Stewart Island Wild Kiwi Encounter

Combo (Save 10%): Stewart Island Ferry & Wild Kiwi Encounter Experience

Stewart Island Guided Wilderness Walk

How Headout makes choosing experiences effortless

We curate the best ways to experience

We partner with the best

All the best options, in one place

Book with complete peace of mind

Quick overview

Which Stewart Island tour is best for you?

What to expect at Stewart Island

Stewart Island ferries

Stewart Island accommodation

Getting around

Tour pace and structure

Length of stay

Things to know before booking your Stewart Island tour

Explore Stewart Island

What to see at Stewart Island

Ulva Island

Plan your visit to Stewart Island

Frequently asked questions about Stewart Island tours

What ticket options are available for Stewart Island?

Are there discounted tickets for children?

How much do Stewart Island tours cost?

What are the top attractions on Stewart Island?

Where do tours start and end?

How long do tours last?

Is Stewart Island wheelchair accessible?

Can I stay overnight on Stewart Island?

How do ferries fit into tour planning?

Are there activities beyond guided tours?

More reads

About Stewart Island

Plan Your Visit to Stewart Island

Stewart Island Tour Timings

Getting to Stewart Island

About Stewart Island

Plan Your Visit to Stewart Island

Stewart Island Tour Timings

Getting to Stewart Island

Stewart Island Tours

Stewart Island Ferry

Combo (Save 6%): Stewart Island Round Trip Ferry Tickets

From Stewart Island: Ulva Island Explorer Tour with Paterson Inlet Cruise

Stewart Island Village & Bays Tour

Combo (Save 5%): Stewart Island Ferry + Stewart Island Wild Kiwi Encounter

What to bring

What’s not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

Stewart Island Wild Kiwi Encounter

What to bring

What's not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

Combo (Save 10%): Stewart Island Ferry & Wild Kiwi Encounter Experience

What to bring

What’s not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

Stewart Island Guided Wilderness Walk

What to bring

What’s not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

What to bring

What's not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

What to bring

What’s not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information