Tramper, Maori Beach, Rakiura National Park

Image: Baptiste Maryns | ©

Rakiura National Park

Located in Stewart Island/Rakiura in the Southland region

Introduction

Rakiura National Park is located on Stewart Island/Rakiura. It encompasses a network of former nature reserves, scenic reserves, and state forest areas. Although the island lies only 30 km south west of Bluff, between latitudes 46 and 47 degrees south, it exudes all the charm of a world on its own.

Highlights

The sunrises and sunsets in soft southern light are amazing. Visitors can explore pristine beaches, sheltered inlets, and coastal forest, and see seals, penguins, kiwi, weka and many other birds. There are also opportunities for hunting, fishing, boating, cruises and scenic flights.
  • The highest point is Mount Anglem/Hananui (980m).
  • About 75 km long and 45 km wide at its widest point.
  • Area 168,300 ha or 1683 sq km (smaller than Hawaii's main island but larger than Hong Kong!).
  • Covers 157,000 ha, 85% of the Stewart Island/Rakiura/
  • The national park established in 2002.
  • Approximately 400 permanent residents.
  • Less than 28 km of road: more than 280 km of walking track.
  • 25.5 km from the mainland across Foveaux Strait.
  • Annual rainfall 1,600 mm per annum.
  • Average temperatures: summer 16° celsius, winter 9° celsius.

Place overview

Facilities

  • Visitor centre

Activities

  • Diving and snorkelling
  • Hunting
  • Walking and tramping

In this section

Find things to do and places to stay Rakiura National Park

About this place

Getting there

Transport to the island is either a 20-minute flight from Invercargill Airport or a one-hour trip on the ferry from Bluff.

Know before you go

Trampers need to be prepared for southern weather which can turn wild, wet and windy at any time of the year.

There is always mud on the Northwest and Southern circuits and those attempting these tracks need to allow for flooding in certain areas during rainy periods.

A visit to the Rakiura National Park Visitor Centre in Oban is recommended before beginning any of the longer walks within Rakiura National Park, as weather and track conditions are constantly subject to change.

Contacts

Rakiura National Park Visitor Centre
Phone:   +64 3 219 0009
Fax:   +64 4 471 1117
Email:   stewartisland@doc.govt.nz
Address:   15 Main Road
Oban
Postal Address:   PO Box 3
Rakiura/Stewart Island 9846
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