With only 25 km of roads, Stewart Island/Rakiura is a paradise for walkers and trampers. It has about 245 km of walking tracks, all of which can be accessed from the town of Oban. The tracks range from undemanding short walks around the township area to remote-experience tramping tracks that require fitness, stamina, and a large degree of self-reliance.
The North West Circuit offers challenging tramping around Rakiura/Stewart island's northern coast.
The Southern Circuit is regarded as a remote, challenging tramp needing good fitness and route-finding skills. You can get to it via the North West Circuit Track or by boat.
The Rakiura Track Great Walk is found on Stewart Island/Rakiura, just a 20 minute flight from Invercargill or an hour by ferry from Bluff.
Find out about the short walks you can enjoy on Stewart Island/Rakiura.
There are a number of day walking tracks that start at Halfmoon Bay on Stewart Island/Rakiura.
Managed by DOC as an open sanctuary, Ulva Island is one of several small islands inside Paterson Inlet, Stewart Island/Rakiura, and has a number of walking tracks for you to enjoy.
General Policy for National Parks
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Stop the spread of didymo
Check, Clean, Dry all items before entering, and when moving between, waterways.
Follow the Outdoor Safety Code: 1. Plan your trip 2. Tell someone 3. Be aware of the weather 4. Know your limits 5. Take sufficient supplies
Rakiura National Park track and weather update
Safety