Arrival & Island Immersion

Stewart Island - Arrive in Oban, Stewart Island via ferry or flight. Meet the guide and embrace the island’s pace.

Oban - Village Orientation Tour – Explore Oban’s maritime allure, key landmarks, and insider tips for spotting the aurora.

Oban - Optional Bush Walk – Enjoy a brief nature loop through coastal podocarp forest, weather permitting.

Stewart Island - Aurora Watch Night 1 – Night sky orientation and aurora viewing tips at Observation Rock or a local beach, weather permitting.

Stewart Island - Wet Weather Option:

Rakiura Museum – Learn about the early Māori, European settlers, muttonbirders, and whalers.

Moturau Moana Native Gardens – New Zealand’s southernmost public gardens, featuring native species and light rain shelter.

Ulva Island & Wildlife Wonders

Ulva Island - Ulva Island Guided Walk – A predator-free haven teeming with birdlife. Spot tīeke, pīwakawaka, kākā, and inquisitive weka.

Ulva Island - Penguin & Seabird Photography – Bring a camera to capture NZ fur seals, tītī (sooty shearwater), and yellow-eyed penguins (Hoiho) if fortunate.

Ulva Island - Optional swim or snorkel in clear waters, dependent on weather and tide.

Ulva Island - Wet Weather Option:

Bunkhouse Theatre – Enjoy a 40-minute local documentary “A Local’s Tail” about Stewart Island life, narrated by a dog!

Jade Carving Workshop – Join a local artisan to craft your own piece of Rakiura greenstone (Pounamu).

Stewart Island - Aurora Watch Night 2 – Venture to a new dark site for fresh skies.

Ocean & Heritage

Stewart Island - Paterson Inlet Cruise & “The Neck” – A scenic wildlife journey past hidden coves and bird-filled shores. Look out for albatross, little blue penguins, and marine mammals.

Stewart Island - Historic Whalers Base Visit – Discover the haunting remains of the Norwegian whaling station, enriched by tales of the past.

Stewart Island - Visit Local Seafood Farms – Explore salmon, mussel, and oyster operations with a chance to taste the freshest island cuisine.

Stewart Island - Wet Weather Option:

Combine museum & jade workshop with local storytelling or indoor tastings with island residents.

Stewart Island - Aurora Watch Night 3 – Get cozy with hot drinks and warm layers—potentially the best chance with clearer southern skies.

Kiwi Quest & Local Legends

Stewart Island - Daytime Kiwi Bird Spotting Tour – A unique opportunity to observe Stewart Island’s famous diurnal kiwi in its natural habitat.

Stewart Island - Acker’s Cottage Visit – Step into one of NZ’s oldest stone buildings, built in 1835, with picturesque bay views.

Stewart Island - Optional Activity:

Moturau Moana Native Gardens (if not yet visited)

Or an additional forest/bush walk to experience Rakiura’s wild beauty.

Stewart Island - Wet Weather Option:

Return to any previously missed indoor activities (theatre, carving, museum).

Relax with local cuisine at the South Sea Hotel or Kai Kart, sharing stories with fellow travelers.

Stewart Island - Aurora Watch Night 4 – Perhaps a secluded beachfront or private balcony stargaze with the aurora forecast in hand.

Reflections & Farewell

Stewart Island - Sunrise Walk or Final Birdwatch – Early risers can catch the light over the inlet or seabirds feeding at dawn.

Stewart Island - Wrap-up, pack, and transfer – Depart by ferry or flight, carrying home aurora dreams and new friendships.

Stewart Island - Optional final stop at Moturau Moana or Ackers Point Track (short walk with sweeping views).

Stewart Island - Aurora Watch Night 5 (if staying an extra night) – A final chance for the southern lights to bid you farewell.

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

• Transport to trip start in Invercargill

Discover the enchanting Aurora Australis on an unforgettable journey to see the Southern Lights from Stewart Island, New Zealand. This exceptional tour combines celestial beauty with unique wildlife encounters and a rich cultural experience. Gaze at the vibrant night skies from the world’s southernmost Dark Sky Sanctuary. During the day, explore the predator-free Ulva Island, observe wild kiwi birds in daylight, cruise Paterson Inlet, and capture photos of rare penguins and seabirds. Interact with local artisans, delve into the island’s whaling history, and create your own jade carving. With wet-weather alternatives like museums and workshops, every moment is valuable—rain or shine. Choose from 3, 4, or 5-day packages and immerse yourself in the natural splendor and timeless allure of Rakiura. This is more than just a tour; it’s a once-in-a-lifetime adventure distinguished by its unique location, intimate experiences, and the stunning Aurora Australis illuminating the southern skies.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.