Ferry from Stewart Island to New Zealand

About Stewart Island

Stewart Island is the third largest in New Zealand, situated 30 kilometres south of the South Island. Lying just across the Foveaux Strait, Stewart Island has one of the country’s most untouched landscapes. It is fast becoming a popular eco-tourism destination, boasting immaculate beaches, dense forests and picturesque bays. As you would expect from an island with unspoilt terrain, Stewart is home to many species of bird including 20,000 of the endangered brown kiwi, the flightless Stewart Island kiwi and the nearly extinct kakapo parrot. It’s also a great location for adventure sports like kayaking and walking, where, on an evening stroll, you might catch a glimpse of the spectacular Aurora Australis. As for hiking, the 39-kilometre trek along the Rakiura Track lasts 3 days, taking you through some of the national park, across high ridges and along the beautiful Paterson Inlet. Stewart Island makes a fantastic day trip or short excursion from the South Island, so there are frequent crossings back to the town of Bluff which usually last around an hour.

About New Zealand

New Zealand can be found on the south east side of Australia and is made up of two main islands and a number of smaller islands. The two main islands known as the North Island and South Island are separated by the Cook Strait. The five largest inhabited islands aside from the main 2 are Stewart Island, the Chatham Islands, Great Barrier Island, d'Urville Island and Waiheke Island. The South Island is the largest landmass of New Zealand, and is divided along its length by the Southern Alps. The North Island is less mountainous but is marked by seismic activity. New Zealand is a land of magnificent beauty and contrasts. Nature reigns supreme. Unspoilt coastlines, lush vegetation, amazing wildlife and a moderate climate make it ideal for visitors wanting to enjoy the outdoors or simply relax. The country's dynamic culture has European, Maori, Pacific and Asian influences. The Kiwis, as the New Zealanders are well known as, are a hospitable and friendly bunch. New Zealand features in the top ten of places travellers would like to visit and chances are you've never meet anyone who has been and didn't love the place. In terms of ferry travel, the two main islands are connected by a 55 mile service across the Cook strait. The ferry journey itself is widely acknowledged one of New Zealand's most iconic sightseeing experiences.