If you’re looking for an experience that truly immerses travellers in New Zealand’s untouched natural beauty, then the RealNZ Ulva Island Explorer is an absolute must do while visiting Stewart Island. From native birdlife to pristine beaches and lush forest, this tour feels like stepping into another world entirely.
Our journey began travelling to Stewart Island itself. Travellers can either fly from Invercargill or travel by ferry from Bluff and after doing the ferry crossing myself both ways… I’d strongly suggest recommending the flight option where possible! While the crossing is scenic, even on a calm day the Foveaux Strait certainly lived up to its reputation for being lumpy at times.
Once arriving into Oban at Half Moon Bay, it was time to check in for the Ulva Island Explorer tour. The adventure starts almost immediately with a short boat journey across Paterson Inlet to Ulva Island. This was far more than simply a transfer - our skipper provided entertaining commentary throughout, stopping to point out historic landmarks, hidden coves, wildlife and points of interest along the shoreline. One of the best touches? At every stop, the boat turned so both sides could enjoy the view and get that perfect Instagramable pic.
Before long we arrived at Ulva Island and stepped off onto the jetty ready to explore. From the moment you arrive, you immediately notice how peaceful and untouched the island feels. Completely predator free, Ulva Island has become a sanctuary for native birdlife and the wildlife encounters here are incredible. The guided walk itself is relaxed and very manageable, lasting approximately 1.5 - 2 hours along well maintained tracks with a few gentle uphill and stair sections. Comfortable walking shoes are definitely recommended but this is by no means a strenuous hike. What truly makes this experience special is the birdlife. Everywhere you look there seems to be movement in the trees or rustling in the undergrowth. Our guide’s knowledge was outstanding, helping identify native birds while sharing stories about the island’s history, conservation efforts and ecosystem. The birds here are remarkably unafraid of humans, making for incredible viewing and photography opportunities. If travellers are lucky, they may even spot kiwi during daylight hours - something incredibly rare elsewhere in New Zealand. Beyond the wildlife, the forest itself is magical. Moss covered trees, vibrant ferns, unusual fungi and dense native bush create an almost prehistoric atmosphere.
One of the highlights for me was emerging from the forest onto one of Ulva Island’s secluded beaches….soft sand, crystal clear water and scattered across the shoreline were tiny bird tracks -including kiwi tracks spotted by our group…it felt more tropical island than southern New Zealand.
By the end of the experience, it was easy to understand why Ulva Island is considered one of Stewart Island’s hidden gems. It’s peaceful, immersive and offers an authentic connection to New Zealand’s natural environment that’s becoming increasingly rare to find.
Why we think RealNZ’s Ulva Island Explorer is a great option for your clients
