More about Stewart Island
Why Cruise to Stewart Island?
Stewart Island's lush, unspoiled landscape alone makes for an other-worldly experience
Not many cruises stop here, so if you want to visit via the sea, your options will be limited
If you revel in nature and wildlife, and enjoy the simple pleasures of a tiny little community, stuck in a time-warp, it doesn't get much better than Stewart Island
Stewart Island Cruise Port Facilities?
Your ship will be anchored in the sheltered waters of Paterson Inset, half-way down the east coast of Stewart Island. From this safe anchorage, cruise ships send their tenders into Golden Bay or to Halfmoon Bay, both of which have jetties. Passengers can then connect with ship-organised tour operators who will be waiting nearby, or perhaps go on an independent tour if there are still places left on Stewart Island's walking and nature tours. Apart from the wharf, there is little development in Golden Bay. From here, independent passengers can walk up a relatively steep hill and then down the hill to the township of Oban; it's about a 1 km walk. If coming ashore at Halfmoon Bay, Oban is right at the wharf.
Good to Know?
The island's national park is crisscrossed by walking trails, so pull on the hiking boots and go for a walk (or a tramp as New Zealanders call a hike). If walking around Oban after dark or on the road that connects the village with Golden Bay, it's best to use your mobile phone torch (or a flashlight) as few roads have street lights and/or wear a jacket with reflective strips if you have one.
Getting Around?
On Foot: The village of Oban only has a few streets so it's an infinitely walkable place. Once in the village you can walk to the museum, general store/supermarket, the community centre, restaurants and the little Presbyterian church on the hill.
There are several trails that leave from Halfmoon Bay if you want to go hiking including the 30-minute walk to Bathing Beach to the west, the Fuchsia Walk and Raroa Reserve Track to peaceful Thule Bay to see its quaint boat sheds (30 minutes each way) and the Golden Bay-Deep Bay Track, which goes over Peterson Hill and is a 90-minute to two-hour return walk. Before setting off, ask for directions and maps at the Oban Visitor Centre, known as the Red Shed (19 Elgin Terrace; +64 3 219 0056)
By Bicycle, Motor Scooter or Car: Tour company Stewart Island Experience seems to have the island covered when it comes to hiring mountain bikes, scooters and small cars. Rentals are available for as little as an hour to a full day. As there are only a handful of roads on Stewart Island and they are located in and around Oban, it's best to hire a car or scooter for just half a day.
You'll be able to drive from the village to Horseshoe Bay to the west, and to a variety of lovely deserted bays to the east and west of the township and also over the hill to Golden and Thule bays. Mountain bikes and scooters aren't allowed on walking trails. Make inquiries and reservations in advance to avoid disappointment. (+64 3 212 7660; email: info@sie.co.nz; or visit www.stewartislandexperience.co.nz/
Taxi and Water Taxis: One taxi company, Aurora Cab Co, will pick up passengers from Golden Bay or Halfmoon Bay wharfs and also organise tailor-made tours (auroracabco.co.nz). Water taxis are operated by Aihe Water Taxi (www.aihe.co.nz) and Rakiura Charters & Water Taxi (www.rakiuracharters.co.nz), which offer point-to-point connections from Stewart Island to nearby scenic spots such as Ulva Island as well as tours and scenic cruises of Paterson Inlet. Once again it's advisable to book in advance.
Currency & Best Way to Get Money?
Currency in Stewart Island is the New Zealand dollar. Take cash if you want to shop in Oban as most businesses only accept cash; some operators do have Eftpos and credit card facilities but cash is your best option. There's an ATM in the Four Square Supermarket but it only takes New Zealand bank cards. Ask one of the shopkeepers at the supermarket before using it, as the ATM is known to have a few idiosyncrasies.
Language?
English is the main language spoken on Stewart Island. Some locals speak Maori.