Rakiura - Land of Glowing Skies

Nestled at the southernmost tip of New Zealand, Rakiura Stewart Island is a hidden paradise waiting to weave its magic into your soul. A mere 30km from the South Island, it is a perfect retreat for those seeking peace, quiet, and adventure.

Rakiura, often called "The Land of Glowing Skies," enchants with an otherworldly charm. Despite its Subantarctic location, the island's crystal-clear turquoise waters and white sand beaches create an illusion of a tropical paradise. Here, the Aurora Australis Southern Lights dance across the night sky regularly, inviting stargazers and astrotourism enthusiasts to be captivated by nature's celestial masterpiece.

Stretching over 85% of the island, Rakiura National Park is a realm of wilderness wonder. It is the only place in New Zealand where you can readily see Brown Kiwi in their natural habitat. The renowned Rakiura Track, one of New Zealand's Great Walks, leads explorers through a diverse tapestry of unspoiled ecosystems, from lush rainforests to sprawling wetlands and vast sand dunes. With over 280 kilometres of walking tracks, Rakiura caters to trampers and hikers alike. Indulge in birdwatching, fishing, sea kayaking, diving, and even hunting.

An absolute must on your Rakiura adventure is Te Wharawhara Ulva Island, a predator-free sanctuary nestled in Stewart Island's Paterson Inlet. Here, a vibrant world of birdlife unfolds, featuring friendly Kākā and Weka, the vivid Kākāriki, South Island Saddlebacks, adorable little Blue Penguins, and the rare Yellow-Eyed Penguins known as Hoiho.

Starting your Rakiura journey is a breeze, with options ranging from a 20-minute flight from Invercargill to a one-hour ferry ride or an exhilarating 15-minute helicopter journey from Bluff.

Discover Rakiura Stewart Island, where nature's wonders await at the edge of the world, ready to ignite your spirit of adventure and wonder.