ulva island bird tour

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half day  Ulva Island Guided Walk - Beautiful Birding & Botany

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Ulva Island Guided Walk

Adults: From $155 Children (12 & Under): From $90

8.45am and 1.00pm (additional times may be available)

August – May (except Christmas Day)

Group Size:

Ideally 2 – 8 people. If you are wanting an exclusive option please enquire at [email protected] for rates and options.

An island full of amazing birdlife

Come join one of our experienced local guides on a highly engaging 3.5 hour guided walk on predator free Ulva Island. Ulva island has an abundance of native, rare and endangered birdlife, bringing the primeval podocarp forest alive with bird song.

Wind your way through the ancient forest on a well maintained gravel walking track at a leisurely pace. The focus being to show you the wonders of the amazing birdlife on Ulva Island so you can enjoy it as much as we do.

What happens on the day

Meet our guide at Golden Bay Wharf 10 minutes prior to departure time where we board a water taxi for the 7-minute ride across Paterson Inlet to Ulva Island Bird Sanctuary.

An experienced local guide will take you around this amazing island and not only tell you about the birdlife, flora, fauna you see but they will help you spy some of New Zealand’s rarer birds.

After your guided walk through ancient forest on Ulva Island we then board the water taxi back across Paterson Inlet to Golden Bay Wharf where the tour ends.

Price includes

• Return water taxi fare between Stewart Island and Ulva Island
• One of our experienced local guides for the duration of your tour
• Department of Conservation concession fees

Who this tour is great for

• Bird watchers
• Nature lovers
• Families, couples and singles

Level of fitness required

A moderate level of fitmess is needed. Guests must be able to walk unassisted for 3.5 hours and be able to manage steps with very few hand rails, and beach walking.

Birds you will likely see at Ulva Island include

• Bellbird – Korimako
• Brown Creeper – Pipipi
• Fantail – Piwakawaka
• Grey Warbler – Riroriro
• Morepork – Ruru
• Red and Yellow-crowned Parakeet – Kakariki
• South Island Kaka
• South Island Saddleback – Tieke
• South Island Tomtit – Ngirungiru
• Stewart Island Robin – Kakariwai
• Stewart Island Weka
• Rifleman – Titipounamu
• Wood Pigeon – Kereru
• Yellowhead – Mohua

If you are extremely lucky you may see a Kiwi – Tokoeka

Native trees you can see

Rimu, Totara, Miro, Southern Rata, and Kamahi are the trees which make up the Ulva Island forest canopy.

What people say...

Ange runs small tours at Ulva Island, a bird watching paradise. Her knowledge of the bird life is incredible and she takes the track real slow so you can see all the best birds and plants. We did our research and can confidently say she runs the best bird watching tours to Ulva Island. You get a full three or more hours with her and it’s super personalised. Plus she’s been involved in predator eradication and bird protection for decades so has lots of great knowledge to share. Down to earth, amazing bird watching and a lovely woman.

Booked an early tour to Ulva Island, was on the Island before the other water taxis and cruise boats arrived. WOW the birdsong was incredible, saw so many native birds ( Weka, Kaka, Saddleback, Kereru, Oyster Catchers, Stewart Island Robin) and Ange explained all the Flora and Fauna ( very interesting ) after walking the tracks we headed off in the boat to see many seabirds ( including Albatross, Penguins, Terns) and were delighted by the Hooker Sealions antics. JUST DO IT !!

My husband and I went on a half day guided walk with Ange on Stewart Island, then a Kiwi spotting tour later that evening. Both were absolutely fantastic. Ange is incredibly knowledgeable and has been involved in conservation in the area since the 1990s. She’s really relaxed and approachable and absolutely knows her stuff! We saw some amazing birds & plants, including Kiwis, Saddlebacks & Yellow Heads. Would recommend 100%. Thank you, Ange!

If we hadn’t have had a guide for our Ulva Island trip, my family would’ve powered around the island walk in about an hour! It was so worth paying to have a guided tour – we walked quietly and slowly around the island, with time to learn the different bird calls, to see a huge range of native birds, learn about our native flora and even see a bonus Hooker Sea Lion nursing her baby. I enjoyed everything about this tour – the boat trip over, the beautiful scenery, seeing native birds up close, and the speedy trip back. Thanks Ange – it was a highlight of our stay in Rakiura.

We did a ulva island tour with Ange and Mike, the small personal tour was awesome. We went at our own pace, and their knowledge about the birds, the bush and the land is amazing. Saddlebacks, kaka, robins, and even a baby morepork. Would highly recommend beaks and feathers to anyone.

I felt it a real privilege to be guided by Ang to Ulva Island, not only did she tell me everything I needed to know about the amazing native wildlife, history of Ulva but her passion for the natural world and Stewart Island was infectious. We saw nearly every bird that was needed to be seen and lots of conversation about the native flora and fauna. Ang is a true local and am grateful to her sharing her life experiences of working with NZs natural world and living on Stewart Island. I’m so pleased to have supported a small local business like Beaks and Feathers who gave me an unforgettable experience oh and their gift shop is gorgeous.

Add these to your holiday too...

Ulva by land & sea guided tour.

This tour includes a 1 hour scenic tour in a comfortable water taxi to experience the sea birds and marine life surrounding Ulva Island before being dropped off for a 2.5 hour guided walk on predator free Ulva Island, where the forest comes alive with bird song.

Kiwi Spotting Cover of Darkness

Come join us and you may just get to spy one of New Zealand’s absolute treasures in its natural habitat, the Southern Brown Kiwi. Beaks & Feathers have exclusive access to private land where the kiwi comes out to forage under the cover of darkness.

Port William / Maori Beach Guided Hike

One of the most popular coastal and native bush half day hikes on Stewart Island. Where you will water taxi to Port William before disembarking and hiking to Maori beach. Explore Lee Bay via Little River, a stunning tidal river mouth, overhanging with Rata trees.

Interest in an EXCLUSIVE tour?

Enjoy an exclusive tour where it is just the two of you or maybe an adventure with only your friends and family. Whether your want to explore Ulva Island, Ulva by Land & Sea, Port William/Maori Beach, go Kiwi Spotting or one of the many other great walks around Stewart Island, you will be looked after by our knowledgeable and experienced local guides.

Call us on 027 316 3077 or email us now.

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Beaks & Feathers Stewart Island’s Guided Walks Exploring Nature

Stewart Island Guided Walks on Ulva Island

Kiwi spotting & bird watching on stewart & ulva islands.

Welcome to Beaks and Feathers Guided Walks on Stewart Island!

Embark on a captivating journey with Beaks and Feathers, your ultimate destination for guided walks on Stewart Island.

Immerse yourself in the wonders of nature as our experienced guides lead you through lush forests, pristine beaches, and diverse landscapes. Whether you’re a passionate birdwatcher, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a memorable adventure, our guided walks offer an unparalleled experience.

Discover Stewart Island’s remarkable wildlife, from unique bird species to fascinating flora, as our knowledgeable guides share their expertise and insights. With Beaks and Feathers, you’ll have the chance to witness rare birdlife up close and personal, making this a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for bird lovers.

Our guided walks cater to all levels of fitness and interests, making them perfect for families, solo travellers, or group outings. Unravel the secrets of Stewart Island’s ecological treasures while our guides provide everyone with a safe, informative, and enjoyable experience.

Join us at Beaks and Feathers for an unforgettable guided walk adventure on Stewart Island. Book your tour now and create lasting memories surrounded by the natural beauty of this enchanting paradise.

Beaks & Feathers Guided Walk Options On Stewart Island: 

Beaks & feathers - ulva island guided walk (year round).

Ulva Island (Te Wharawhara), is renowned for its diverse and abundant birdlife with a forest dominated by Rimu, Southern Rata and Kamahi, surrounded by marine reserve. 

It was visited by Ngai Tahu Maori as part of their food gathering trips and in the 1890s it became one of New Zealand’s first reserves. After a lot of hardwork this 267 hectare island is now predator free, allowing the bird and plantlife to thrive.

Bird Watching Tours - Exploring Ulva Island by Land and Sea (Year Round)

Be the first on Ulva Island at 7am* for an exclusive two and a half hour guided walk before circumnavigating Ulva Island in the Ulva Island water taxi for 1 hour, to gain another perspective of the island.

Kiwi Spotting Evening Tour - Beaks & Feathers

Experience kiwi in their natural environment. where New Zealand’s precious kiwi come out at night to feed.

Join Beaks & Feathers for an unforgettable Kiwi Spotting Evening Tour on Stewart Island.

With exclusive access to pristine habitats, immerse yourself in the magical world of New Zealand’s iconic kiwi bird.

Led by expert guides, venture into the wilderness and witness these elusive creatures in their natural habitat.

Don’t miss this rare opportunity – book now for an enchanting experience like no other!

Stewart Island Walks - Port William and Maori Beach Guided Walk

One of the most popular coastal and native bush walks on Stewart Island. Water taxi to Port William, site of early Maori settlement, before continuing on to beautiful Maori beach. 

This was also where early Maori settled and later became a saw milling community in the early 1900s. 

We then make our way to Lee Bay via Little River, a stunning tidal river mouth, overhanging with Rata trees.

Along the coast lookout for a plethora of birdlife, such as, Mutton birds (Sooty Shearwaters), Shags, Buller’s Mollymawks, Cape Pigeons, and little Blue Pengiuns. 

In the native bush you may see and hear Bellbirds, Tui, Fantails, Parakeets, Shining Cuckoos, Grey Warblers, Kaka and Tomtits and more.

Phone: 027 316 3077                 Email:   [email protected]

Visit our Website:   www.beaksandfeathers.co.nz/

                      Return to Stewart Island Page

Booking for Beaks & Feathers Stewart Island’s Guided Walks Exploring Nature

Save $500pp on a Discovery Expedition Cruise

Ulva Island Explorer

Discover Stewart Island from the water on a leisurely cruise of beautiful Paterson Inlet and a guided walk in Ulva Island Wildlife Sanctuary.

The cruise will showcase some of Paterson Inlet’s stunning scenery with its hidden coves and unspoilt beaches. You’ll hear fascinating stories of early Maori history and European settlement from your guide as we pass various landmarks. Your guide is passionate about this area, provides informative commentary and is more than happy to answer questions. While on board, keep a look out for fur seals and penguins – we see a lot of them around this area.

Paterson Inlet is home to renowned wildlife sanctuary Ulva Island and we’ll stop there for a 45 minute guided walk. The island is home to weka (native woodhen), bush robins, rare saddlebacks and yellowheads amongst other species. It is also a protected habitat for some of New Zealand’s rarest plant species. A regular highlight is to encounter an inquisitive weka on the beach.   For the remainder of the cruise around Paterson Inlet, relax on board and enjoy the coastal scenery before heading back to base.

• Duration 2 hours 15 minutes
• Suitable for most ages and fitness levels
• Small group size
• Picnic lunches available to pre-order (Cut off at 12pm the day before travel)
• From $119 per person

Guided walk of Ulva Island Birdlife Sanctuary.

Discover hidden coves, unspoilt beaches and beautiful scenery.

Home to some of New Zealand 's rarest plant species and wildlife.

Enjoy a personalised tour with a knowledgeable nature guide.

Get your photo featured: #RealNZ

More Information

Departure location.

Stewart Island Ferry Terminal, Stewart Island

What’s included

• Cruise of Paterson Inlet
• 45 minute guided walk on Ulva Island Wildlife Sanctuary
• On board nature guide 

What to bring

Non-slip shoes/boots, waterproof jacket, warm sweater/fleece jacket, sunscreen/ sunglasses, insect repellent, camera and personal medication (including for asthma and allergies).

Picnic Lunches

Price: $30pp- Must be pre-ordered prior to 12pm the day before travel.

Includes: Filled roll, fresh fruit, brownie/muffin, dried fruits (raisins, berries, etc.), complimentary tea and coffee.

Please note: If you require a vegetarian, diary free, gluten free or vegan lunch, please add this into the comments box during the booking process. Menus are indicative only.

Ulva Island/Te Wharawhara

The island sanctuary is located within Paterson Inlet (Whaka a Te Wera) and offers the opportunity to view rarer native species including weka, kākā, kākāriki, tūī, bellbirds (korimako), pigeons (kereru), fantails (piwakawaka), tomtit (miromiro) and brown creeper (pīpipi).

The saddleback (tieke), yellowhead (mohua), Stewart Island robin (toutouwai) and rifleman (titipounamu) have all been successfully reintroduced to Ulva Island. 

Some lucky visitors to the sanctuary have also seen the Stewart Island brown kiwi (tokoeka) during the day.

Ulva Island is part of the Rakiura National Park and covers an approximate 269 hectares which are mostly managed by the Department of Conservation. 

The island, which has no permanent human population, is supported by the Ulva Island Charitable Trust, a group of Stewart Islanders, who raise funds for research, maintain the tracks and infrastructure, and help with bird releases.

The rainforest on Ulva Island consists of rimu, southern rātā and kamahi, and also diverse varieties of broadleaf and ferns.

Ulva Island has easy walking tracks and is an aspiring place to visit for anyone interested in native birds or plants.

The best guided trip we have done so far and we have done a few. The enthusiasm of our guide Karen is infectious and we wouldn't have spotted half the interesting wildlife she knowingly pointed out. Thanks to the whole crew. You are wonderful. 😊❤️ Astrid, via Trip Advisor

Had a fantastic time. What a privilege to be seeing all these species of birds and even some marine animals along the way. Karen the guide was exceptional. This tour is a must-do when visiting Stewart Island. N Kuek, Via Trip Advisor

A big thanks to Britt for saving our holiday! We came down to Stewart Island for a week and unfortunately hit the worst weather possible. Britt went completely above and beyond to make sure we had the best experience possible and were able to make the most of our time on Ulva. It was the highlight of our trip and our bucket list moment!! Katie, via Trip Advisor

Great day for a boat trip and hike on Ulva Island. Our guide was very knowledgeable of all the tree plants and birds.  Edward F, Via Trip Advisor

This was a really good experience. We were fortunate that the weather was good for our visit, and that we saw quite a few birds, but above all we were lucky to have such a brilliant and engaging guide in Natasha. She really knows her flora and fauna and was able to point out and explain all kinds of things we would never have noticed by ourselves. Michael, UK via Trip Advisor

Karen was our guide and was extremely knowledgeable. We saw so many beautiful species of birds. Karen was quick to describe them by their singing before even spotting them. The trail is beautifully done and the whole tour was just magnificent. Danette31 Dallas, Texas, Via TripAdvisor

Absolutely wonderful experience. Guide Bevan was fantastic. Picnic lunch gluten free option was excellent. 10 out of 10. One of New Zealand's best experiences. Thankyou! AnnieHutchison Auckland, New Zealand, Via TripAdvisor

An awesome afternoon, the guides passion and knowledge was amazing and all the staff were brilliant. I would definitely recommend this trip. nigelmcarthur1, Via TripAdvisor

In case you haven't found the information you were looking for, we've put together some of the most common questions our customers ask about our trips. If you need more specific answers, please contact us directly.

For visitors travelling on the Stewart Island Ferry Service, you are required to check in 30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time (to allow for luggage loading, etc). The check in and boarding gates are closed 10 minutes prior to scheduled ferry departure. For all our cruises and tours, check in is required 20 minutes prior to the schedule departure.

The bird life on Ulva Island and Stewart Island is of exceptional interest, not only because of the presence of high profile species such as weka, wood pigeon, Stewart Island Robin and kaka, but also because Stewart Island and its small outliers provide a refuge for a range of less well-known birds, among them the NZ dotterel, South Island saddleback, Rifleman, Oystercatcher and the red and yellow-crowned parakeet.

There are a huge range of activities available on Stewart Island, from kayaking, fishing trips, golf, walking tracks and more. To find out more information and to make bookings, we operate the Oban Visitor Centre. The Department of Conservation (DoC) also operates a Visitor Information Centre and can provide more information on walking tracks and activities.

Yes, there are many activities you can fit into one day on Stewart Island. Ask our reservations team for suggested itineraries.

Online transactions/prices are conducted in what currency?

All prices and transactions on the RealNZ website are in New Zealand dollars (NZD).  This is specified on the Terms & Conditions page.

What happens if there is an emergency?

Our staff are trained to deal with incidents and in case of an emergency you should listen to their instructions. We have a portable defibrillator on each of our overnight cruise vessels (Milford Mariner, Milford Wanderer and Fiordland Navigator). In addition to this we also have portable defibrillators at the following locations: •    Milford Sound Visitor Terminal •    RealNZ Visitor Centre, Manapouri •    Cavern House (Te Anau Glowworm Caves) •    Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant, Walter Peak •    TSS Earnslaw Vintage Steamship •    Stewart Island Ferry (Bluff - Oban - Bluff)

Ulva Island Explorer, Stewart Island, New Zealand

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Rakiura Adventure

The local Stewart Island experience – Water-taxi, Ulva Island ferry, scenic & overnight charters and much more…

Ulva Island Ferry

On this page: Getting there : Ulva Island Ferry & Water-Taxi About Ulva Island Guided walks/freedom walk

Getting There

Let the experienced skippers from Rakiura Adventure transport you there, and share with you their knowledge and passion for the wildlife and the history.

Take a trip on our classic Ulva Island ferry ‘Ranui’ which runs on a schedule and includes plenty of opportunity to spot Little Blue penguins and Mollymawks/Albatross on a breezy day.

Or, nip across with our Water-Taxi for a customised departure and return time.

CURRENTLY CLOSED DUE TO ULVA ISLAND WHARF MAINTENANCE, PLEASE CALL 0272898292 OR BOOK DIRECTLY BELOW UNDER WATERTAXI

Scheduled Sailings: Departs from Golden Bay Wharf :  9:00am, 10:00am, 12:00pm, 2:00 pm, Returns from Ulva Island :  10:15pm, 12:15pm, 2:15pm, 4:15pm

Return Fares: Adult – from $25 Child (12y and under)  –  from $15

No booking required. Please arrive approximately 15 minutes prior to scheduled departures. *Please note card payment at the boat have a $2 surcharge.

Ulva Island Water Taxi

Transfers to Ulva Island available any time upon request.

Return Fares: Adult – from $35 for smaller groups – from $30 for larger groups Child – from $25

Cash and eftpos payment options available *Please note credit card payments at the boat have a 3% surcharge.

*Please note, in the off season – the depths of Winter…brrrr – only the water taxi will be running

About Ulva Island

Icon ic Ulva Island in Stewart Island/Rakiura waters is a beautiful pest-free open bird sanctuary. Due to it’s long held protected status, Ulva provides visitors an opportunity to experience unspoiled, never felled rain-forest, and see rare birds and plants at close quarters. It really is an experience of what the New Zealand bush was like, and perhaps could be like with further predator control programs. Full of noise, movement, colour and variety – full of life!

How it came to be

The Island was first protected as a reserve for the ‘Preservation of Native Game and Flora’ in 1899, making it one for New Zealand’s first! In the 1980’s and 90’s the pest eradication work began – with the Island being declared pest free in 1997. The removal of rats in particular meant that several threatened species could safely be re-introduced back to Ulva Island.

The Island today

Nowadays you have the chance to encounter Kākā, Kākāriki, Tūī, Bellbirds/korimako, Pigeons/Kereru, Fantails/Piwakawaka, Saddleback/Tieke, Rifleman/Titipounamu, Brown creeper/Pīpipi, Stewart Island robin/Toutouwai and Yellowhead/Mohua. Not to mention the shore birds, and New Zealand/Hooker’s sea lions that sometimes frequent the beaches and the tracks!

If all that wasn’t enough, it’s pretty much the only place on earth where you have a chance of seeing a kiwi during daylight hours! A lucky one or two visitors a day usually report a sighting…just mind the Weka imposters…

Walking tracks on the Island are well formed and well signed. Track times can be somewhat misleading as they are very generous. We like to say they account for ‘stopping and looking’ time, and that fit people could walk all tracks looped together in 1.5h with no stopping.

Your Experience – Guided or Freedom Walk

Whether you prefer to wander tracks and explore independently at your own pace, or if you want to gain insights, insider stories and expert spying eyes, there is an option to suit you.

For the freedom walkers, we highly recommend purchasing one of the informative Ulva Island self guiding booklets. You can purchase these either from the local DOC centre , the Four Square supermarket, or with cash at the end of the wharf on the island. The booklets are put together by the charitable trust that keeps the island pest free. They offer colour coded track maps that match up with numbered stopping/interest points throughout the island, and bird & plant identification guides and information.

For those that would like expert guidance, we partner with local guides to offer you the expertise and background which bring Ulva to life. Our guides specialise in small group sizes so you won’t get lost in the crowd and will have plenty of opportunity to ask questions. To find out more about guided walk options give us a call.

Check out the great work of our local school kids in helping you keep Ulva Island predator free!

Due to Wharf Damages/Restrictions Ulva Island Ferry is not able to operate as usual.

You can still go to Ulva Island & other destinations with our on-demand Watertaxi, Call: 027 28 98 292

Or, email: [email protected]

Due to wharf damages and restrictions, Ulva Island Ferry cannot operate scheduled trips as usual

We can offer services to and from Ulva Island as well as other destinations and tours with our  on-demand water-taxi –  Call 0272898292 or email [email protected]

5-21 day, all-inclusive, guided adventure tours

FREE PHONE: +64 3 595 2080 +64 3 595 2080 1800 459 511 1-877-796-0416 0800 920 2011

Visiting Ulva Island

By Kim Mackay-Wallace

5 minute read

Get hold of your free New Zealand Trails brochure here

Ulva Island is a unique open sanctuary, situated a short 5-minute water taxi ride from Stewart Island. It’s remote location and extensive predator control programs have allowed it to become a pest-free paradise of native rainforest unspoiled by human influence, and home to a wide range of native and endangered wildlife. The waters surrounding Ulva Island make up the Te Wharawhara Marine Reserve, where all marine life is protected, fishing and food gathering is strictly managed to a sustainable level, and no commercial fishing operations are permitted.

A visit to Ulva Island is a must-do for all nature enthusiasts. Explore the island on your own or join us on The New Zealand Great Walk Adventure for a guided trip to Ulva Island, as well as walks on the Rakiura, Milford, Routeburn and Kepler Tracks.

History of Ulva Island

Ulva Island was given reserve status for the preservation of ‘native game and flora’ in 1899, making it one of the earliest reserves of its kind in New Zealand. It was the first part of Rakiura/Stewart Island to receive protection and is an important part of New Zealand’s tourism and conservation history.

The majority of Ulva Island is now included in Rakiura National Park, which was established in 2002. The area around Post Office Bay is still privately owned, however, as it has been since the Post Office was first built in 1872 by Pakeha residents Charles and Jesse Traill. The Post Office was built here as the top of Flagstaff Hill (a highpoint just above Post Office Bay) can be seen from throughout Paterson Inlet. When mail was delivered, the Traill’s would raise a flag on Flagstaff Hill, and residents of the many sawmilling, boat construction and fishing settlements scattered throughout the Inlet would row or sail to Ulva Island to collect their mail. In addition to serving the local communities with mail services, Charles Traill was a keen naturalist and botanist, and was a driving force in the establishment of Ulva Island as a nature reserve.

Walks on Ulva Island

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Ulva Island Tour

Ulva Goodwillie is a Māori Eco/Nature guide who is passionate about, and absolutely committed to, Ulva Island  and its protection. As a predator free island, the plants and native birds have been able to flourish as nature originally intended, and a visit to the island is like stepping back in time.

Ulva walks you round at a gentle pace, stopping at Māori Hill with its lovely view across the sea and one of the beautiful beaches. With her expert knowledge and first-hand conservation experience, she is able to talk you through the unique flora and fauna, explain the conservation efforts, and answer whatever questions you may have.

A guided walk is an essential part of understanding not only Ulva Island, but also New Zealand's, natural history.

Start planning your tailor-made trip by contacting one of our New Zealand specialists

• 617-223-4521 617-223-4580
• Make an inquiry

Photos of Ulva Island Tour

Other experiences in Stewart & Ulva Islands

These activities are designed to give you the most authentic experiences around where you're staying. We work with local guides, who use their knowledge and often a resident's eye to show you the main sights and more out-of-the-way attractions. Our specialists can suggest tours and activities that will introduce you to the local ways of life.

Birding Bonanza and Kiwi Spotting full day tour of Ulva and Stewart Islands

This full-day trip is the ultimate birding and nature experience on Stewart Island. This tour also includes an opportunity to see the elusive and beautiful local kiwis, but due to their susceptibility to weather conditions the exact timing of your visit to watch them is flexible.

Experience it for yourself

You can enjoy this activity as part of the suggested tour below, or we can weave it into a trip shaped entirely around you.

New Zealand's wildlife self-drive tour

22 days from $10,860pp

0800 725 487   +64 (0)3 219 1487

ALL TOURS   BOOK NOW

Paterson Inlet & Ulva Island Combo Tours

From $60pp   2 hrs+

Home » All Tours

NEW Paterson Inlet Discovery Cruise, & Ulva Island Add-On

Join our brand new Discovery Cruise for Stewart Island’s most comprehensive journey exploring Paterson Inlet’s ( Te Whaka a Te Wera)  unique natural and Māori history, wildlife, aquaculture and scenery.

This 3.5-hour experience departs daily during our summer period (and on demand for groups) from Oban’s central Halfmoon Bay wharf .

Fare: $135pa, $89pc, valid through to end Sep 2023. From 1 Oct 2023 this fare will be changing to $150pa, and remaining at $89pc.

We offer two options if you would like to combine an Ulva Island freedom walk with this exciting new cruise:

a) Select our Ulva Island on demand experience to enjoy on a different day, and save 10% on your whole cart with our Multi-Day Pass . Contact us TO REDEEM YOUR DISCOUNT. Fare: Additional $30pa, $15pc. Our Port William Cruise & Walk is also eligible for the Multi-Day Pass special.

b) Contact us to select the Ulva Island Add-On , to tack on a flexible freedom walk directly after your cruise on the same day. Our friendly team can talk you through booking a return time to Golden Bay that suits you. Fare: Additional $15pa, $10pc.

For more information about Ulva Island,  click here . 

Other Stewart Island Combo Tours

Freshwater river scenic & ulva island combo tour.

Enjoy a 1.5 hour vessel-based scenic cruise up the winding Freshwater River; the perfect way to explore a unique part of the island without the tramping. Fascinating commentary will help you appreciate the historical and geographical sites in Paterson Inlet including the Rakiura National Park, the Ruggedy Ranges, Freshwater Inlet and Mason Bay.

Combine this tour with a freedom discovery of the Ulva Island open bird sanctuary.

Fare: $110pa, $55pc.

Marine Farms & Ulva Island Combo Tour

Learn about our fascinating aquaculture industry, farming salmon, mussels and oysters on this 1 hour cruise around Big Glory Bay. Enjoy the opportunity to spot dolphins, yellow-eyed penguins and other wildlife before your freedom walk at the unique Ulva Island open bird sanctuary.

Fare: $100pa, $50pc, increasing to $105pa from 1 Oct 2023.

Whaler’s Base History & Ulva Island Combo Tour

Between 1923 and 1933 the Ross Sea Whaling Company of Norway made 9 expeditions to Antarctica while using a base in Paterson Inlet. The ‘Whaler’s Base’ was used to repair the whaler chasers in between seasons. View the relics from the boat, including the old rusty workshop boiler and foundations of the slipway. Best enjoyed at low tide, but this tour may only be available outside of high tide due to scheduling factors.

Add on a stroll the Ulva Island open bird sanctuary on a flexible freedom walk. If you would like to disembark at the Whaler’s Base or Millar’s Beach with a later pick up, contact us for schedule options and rates.

Wildlife & Ulva Island Combo

Meet our local wildlife up close and personal on this fully commentated 1 hour tour as we cruise around the stunning Southern Bays of Paterson Inlet. Wildlife spotting opportunities include Bottlenose dolphins, Yellow-Eyed Penguins, and NZ Sea Lions and more. Travel through the Ulva Island/ Te Wharawhara Marine Reserve, and learn about its unique and fascinating marine habitats.

Select the Ulva Island Combo option to finish your experience with a flexible freedom walk at the Ulva Island sanctuary.

Select two of any of the 1-hour Tours above to create your own itinerary of Stewart Island/ Rakiura’s highlights!

Fare: $130pa, $70pc, increasing to $145pa and $72.50pc from 1 Oct 2023.

Custom 2hr Combos also available with an Ulva Island freedom walk add-on: $150pa, $75pc, increasing to $170pa and $82.50pc from 1 Oct 2023.

Please fill our enquiry form or give our friendly team a call to book one of our combo tours.

What to bring on our Combo Tours

• Warm, comfortable clothing including raincoat if desired
• Binoculars, camera
• Personal water bottle

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Rakiura Charters

FREEPHONE: 0800 725 487 PHONE: +64 (0)3 219 1487 [email protected]

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