For all ages! • 3 - 4 hours, departs 9am • One of the most popular coastal and native bush half day
Experience New Zealand’s wild southern coast on the Port William / Maori Beach Guided Hike—a 10km trek on Stewart Island’s Rakiura Track featuring coastal views, native bush, and expert guides.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3-4 hours
Fitness Level
You should be in good physical shape, able to walk unassisted on uneven ground for several hours.
Wildlife
History
Rakiura Track is part of New Zealand’s Great Walks and was designated as a national park in 2002, highlighting conservation efforts on Stewart Island.
Conservation
Beaks & Feathers holds a Department of Conservation concession promoting sustainable tourism that minimizes ecological impact on native habitats.
Beaks and Feathers
For all ages! • 3 - 4 hours, departs 9am • One of the most popular coastal and native bush half day
Beaks and Feathers is a nature-guiding company based in Oban on Stewart Island/Rakiura in the Southland Region of New Zealand. The operator specialises in small-group wildlife experiences focused on native birds and marine life.
Offerings include guided walks on Ulva Island, combined land-and-sea tours with a water taxi, night-time Kiwi Spotting on private land, and half-day guided hikes to Port William and Maori Beach along the Rakiura Track. Guides are local and interpretive, providing information on bird identification, habitat, conservation and safe visitor practices.
Beaks and Feathers operates within predator-free environments on Ulva Island and coordinates water taxi transfers where required. Safety briefings and guided support are provided for coastal hikes and rock-hopping sections. The company emphasises responsible wildlife viewing, minimal disturbance, and adherence to local conservation rules to protect rare and endangered species.
Booking options accommodate small groups to maximize viewing opportunities and minimize ecological impact. Meeting points and trip durations vary by experience; the Ulva Island Guided Walk is a 3.5-hour guided walk, while the Port William / Maori Beach Guided Hike is a half-day 10km adventure including steps and rock hopping. Kiwi Spotting is conducted at night with exclusive access to private land for a higher chance of sightings. By focusing on local knowledge, predator-free sites and guided support, Beaks and Feathers delivers credible, factual wildlife experiences for visitors seeking birdwatching, nature photography and immersive coastal hikes. Tours emphasize biosecurity, clear communication, and respect for cultural sites, offering memorable, educational encounters with Stewart Island wildlife and conservation.
Location
Oban, Southland
Based on Stewart Island/Rakiura
Water Taxi
Included on select tours
Scenic land-and-sea access
Guided Tours
Small groups
Local, interpretive guides
Ulva Island
Predator-free
Home to rare native birdlife
Reserve small-group Ulva Island walks, night Kiwi Spotting, or Rakiura Track hikes — book early to secure preferred dates.
Prepare for uneven terrain
Bring sturdy hiking shoes to handle steps, rock hopping, and uneven coastal trails.
Timing matters
Start your hike early to enjoy cooler temperatures and avoid afternoon winds along the coast.
Pack light but smart
Carry water, snacks, and waterproof layers to stay comfortable in variable island weather.
Respect local wildlife
Keep noise down and observe birds like the kiwi from a distance to minimize disturbance.
Hiking boots
Provides grip and support on rocky and uneven trail sections.
Waterproof jacket
Protects against sudden island rain showers and wind.
Daypack with water and snacks
Keeps hydration and energy levels up during the 10km hike.
Sun hat and sunscreen
Necessary for sun protection during exposed coastal sections.
summer