Stewart Island: A Birders' Paradise
For travelers who crave a deeper connection with nature, Stewart Island (Rakiura) is New Zealand’s greatest hidden gem. Just off the southern tip of the South Island, this wild, windswept island is a sanctuary for birds and those who love to watch them. If birding is your passion, Stewart Island is a destination that promises rare encounters, pristine wilderness, and a sense of discovery that lingers long after you return home.
A Haven for Birds-and Birders
Stewart Island boasts over 280 species of birds, making it one of the richest birding destinations in the Southern Hemisphere. Its remote location and low human population have preserved habitats that have vanished elsewhere in New Zealand. Here, ancient podocarp forests, rugged coastlines, and sheltered inlets provide a haven for endemic and migratory species.
Why is Stewart Island so special for birding?
Predator-Free Sanctuaries: Many of New Zealand’s native birds have thrived here, thanks to successful conservation efforts and predator-free islands like Ulva Island.
Unique Species: Stewart Island is one of the best places on earth to see the iconic and elusive kiwi in the wild, as well as rare birds like the Stewart Island robin, saddleback (tīeke), and yellow-eyed penguin (hoiho).
Accessible Wilderness: Trails, guided tours, and boat trips make it easy to explore the island’s diverse habitats.
Birding Highlights on Stewart Island
1. Ulva Island:
A short water taxi ride from Oban, Ulva Island is a predator-free sanctuary where native birds flourish. Here, you can spot South Island saddlebacks, riflemen, Stewart Island robins, and the vibrant kaka parrot. The gentle walking tracks wind through lush forest, offering close encounters with birds that are often surprisingly unafraid of visitors.
2. Nighttime Kiwi Spotting:
Stewart Island is renowned as the best place in New Zealand to see the southern brown kiwi (tokoeka) in its natural habitat. Guided night walks from Oban offer the magical experience of watching these nocturnal birds forage along the beach, which can be an unforgettable highlight for any birder.
3. Pelagic Birding:
The waters around Stewart Island teem with seabirds. Take a boat tour to spot albatrosses, shearwaters, petrels, and even the rare Fiordland crested penguin. The island’s rugged coastline and offshore islets are prime nesting grounds, and local guides know where to find the action.
4. Forest and Coastal Trails:
The island’s network of walking tracks, from short strolls to multi-day hikes, lets you immerse yourself in diverse bird habitats. Listen for the melodic calls of bellbirds and tui, and keep an eye out for the Stewart Island fernbird in the wetlands.
More Than Birds: The Stewart Island Experience
While birding is the main draw, Stewart Island offers much more. The pace of life is slow and welcoming, with the small settlement of Oban serving as the island’s heart. Enjoy fresh seafood at a local café, chat with friendly locals, and soak in the tranquil atmosphere.
The island’s landscapes are equally captivating. Misty rainforests, sweeping beaches, and dramatic headlands provide a stunning backdrop for your adventures. Whether you’re kayaking in Paterson Inlet, hiking the Rakiura Track, or simply pausing to watch a sunset, Stewart Island invites you to reconnect with nature and yourself.
Planning Your Stewart Island Birding Adventure
Getting There: Stewart Island is accessible by ferry from Bluff or by small plane from Invercargill. It feels remote, but it is surprisingly easy to reach.
When to Visit: Birding is rewarding year-round. Spring and summer (October–March) bring nesting activity and migratory species, while autumn and winter offer quieter trails and excellent kiwi spotting.
Expert Guidance: Local guides are invaluable for finding rare species and understanding the island’s ecology. At Catalina Quest, we can connect you with the best birding tours and tailor your itinerary to your interests.
Why Stewart Island Belongs on Your Bucket List
Stewart Island is more than a destination. It’s an immersion in wild New Zealand, where birds rule and nature reigns. For birders, it’s a place of pilgrimage. For all travelers, it’s a reminder of the magic that happens when people and nature coexist in harmony.