Little Stewart Island
Down in the deep south of New Zealand, you’ll find a small island by the name of Stewart Island. It lies 30 Kilometres away from the South Island across the Foveaux Strait. It will only take you 60 minutes via ferry from Bluff.
If you’re looking to head away on a little getaway, get in touch with Rite Price Rentals, you’ll be able to book the perfect vehicle for your trip. We have plenty of car hire/ car rental options to suit you and your family or friends.
Stewart Island is known for its simpler, slower lifestyle, which goes hand in hand with the sea and tides and the beauty of the native surroundings. The island is home to roughly 400 residents but is visited often by up to 30,000 tourists each year. The island may be fairly small but there isn’t a lack of fun and exciting things to see and do. Here are a few of our favourite things to do on Stewart Island!
Walking & Tramping Tracks: Stewart Island has a large selection of walks for all levels of fitness and ability. Walks range in length from as quick as 30 minutes for a round trip or for those looking for a bit more of a challenge, you can choose one of the 7 hour round trip walks. Of the short walks, one of the most popular and rewarding would be Observation Rock, giving stunning views of Paterson Inlet along with amazing sunsets. Some of the popular longer walks include Golden Bay to Deep Bay, Maori Beach track, Horseshoe Bay track, Ackers Point track for coastal vistas and the popular Ryans Creek track
Rakiura Museum: Make sure to stop by the volunteer-run Rakiura museum (the Maori name for Stewart Island, otherwise known as ‘the land of glowing skies’) to brush up on your knowledge and history of Stewart Island for a small entry fee of $2 for adults and 50 cents for children. Included in the exhibits is an extensive collection of Stewart Island shells and crustacea.
Cruises & Fishing: A fun way to explore Oban and the surrounding bays is with one of the mini-bus tours. You’ll have a guide to share their local knowledge of the history and environment of Stewart Island. You’ll come away with a new insight into New Zealand’s southernmost community. Stewart Islanders are proud of their island, enjoying its simpler, slower pace. If you’re keen to get off the land, there is a great range of water cruises and fishing charters available to hire for a few hours or a day. Head to www.stewartisland.co.nz to find the best cruise for your needs.
Cafes & Restaurants: We can’t suggest a trip down to Stewart Island without letting you know some of the best eateries to check out. Here are a few we recommend, Church Hill Restaurant is a proudly New Zealand owned and operated restaurant, who pride themselves on the use of fresh local produce, homemade and prepared to order. South Sea Hotel serves great coffee all day, along with a fully licensed a la carte menu, set or buffet options for groups all the while enjoying the beautiful views on offer. If you’re looking for something to really treat yourself, then we suggest trying The Perfect Dinner Stewart Island Moveable Feast. Exclusive dining in a location of your choice, with beautifully presented delicious local and fresh produce. Prices start from $89 depending on the size of your party or group.
With over 85% of Stewart Island being a national park, you’ll get to see and explore some of New Zealand’s most gorgeous and precious wildlife. If you’re interested and getting to see more than just the town of Oban, head off on a 3-day hike where you’ll really get to see the true Stewart Island.
Explore New Zealand with Rite Price Rentals! Rent a car from Rotorua, Hamilton or Tauranga and explore everything that New Zealand has to offer. We have car or van hire options depending on the size of your family or group. Rite Price Rentals is New Zealand’s trusted car rental company.
