Explore Ulva Island: A Guided Walk Through New Zealand's Predator-Free Bird Sanctuary
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–3.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for those with moderate fitness; able to walk unassisted for 3.5 hours including some steps and beach terrain.
Overview
Discover the vibrant birdlife and ancient forests of Ulva Island on a 3.5-hour guided walk from Stewart Island. This predator-free island sanctuary offers an immersive nature experience perfect for bird watchers and outdoor lovers alike.
Ulva Island Guided Walk
For all ages! • 3.5 hours • Includes return water taxi fare between Stewart Island and Ulva Island
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About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating 3.5-hour guided walk through the lush, predator-free Ulva Island, teeming with New Zealand's rare and endangered birdlife. Led by an experienced local guide, explore ancient forests alive with bird song, and discover the island's unique flora and fauna. A memorable adventure for nature lovers awaits!
An island full of amazing birdlife. Come join one of our experienced local guides on a highly engaging 3.5 hour guided walk on predator free Ulva Island. Ulva island has an abundance of native, rare and endangered birdlife, bringing the primeval podocarp forest alive with bird song.
Duration
3.5 hours
About
Wind your way through the ancient forest on a well maintained gravel walking track at a leisurely pace. The focus being to show you the wonders of the amazing birdlife on Ulva Island so you can enjoy it as much as we do.
What happens on the day
Meet our guide at Golden Bay Wharf 10 minutes prior to departure time where we board a water taxi for the 7-minute ride across Paterson Inlet to Ulva Island Bird Sanctuary.
An experienced local guide will take you around this amazing island and not only tell you about the birdlife, flora, fauna you see but they will help you spy some of New Zealand’s rarer birds.
After your guided walk through ancient forest on Ulva Island we then board the water taxi back across Paterson Inlet to Golden Bay Wharf where the tour ends.
Price includes
• Return water taxi fare between Stewart Island and Ulva Island • One of our experienced local guides for the duration of your tour • Department of Conservation concession fees
Who this tour is great for
• Bird watchers • Nature lovers • Botanists • Families, couples and singles
Level of fitness required
A moderate level of fitmess is needed. Guests must be able to walk unassisted for 3.5 hours and be able to manage steps with very few hand rails, and beach walking.
Birds you will likey see at Ulva Island
• Bellbird – Korimako • Brown Creeper – Pipipi • Fantail – Piwakawaka • Grey Warbler – Riroriro • Morepork – Ruru • Red and Yellow-crowned Parakeet – Kakariki • South Island Kaka • South Island Saddleback – Tieke • South Island Tomtit – Ngirungiru • Stewart Island Robin – Kakariwai • Stewart Island Weka • Rifleman – Titipounamu • Wood Pigeon – Kereru • Yellowhead – Mohua • Tui
If you are extremely lucky you may see a Kiwi – Tokoeka
Native trees you can see
Rimu, Totara, Miro, Southern Rata, and Kamahi are the trees which make up the Ulva Island forest canopy.
Adventure Tips
Pack sturdy walking shoes
The walk features gravel trails, steps, and beach sections requiring supportive footwear to navigate comfortably.
Bring binoculars
Enhance bird watching with binoculars to spot rare and elusive species in the dense forest canopy.
Prepare for variable weather
Southland’s weather can change quickly, so dress in layers and bring waterproof gear to stay comfortable.
Respect wildlife and stay on trails
To protect delicate habitats and wildlife, remain on designated paths and observe birds quietly without disturbance.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- South Island Kakā, a native parrot with vibrant plumage
- Stewart Island Weka, a curious flightless bird endemic to the region
History
Ulva Island was established as a sanctuary under Department of Conservation management to protect native species from introduced predators.
Conservation
Strict conservation rules keep Ulva Island predator-free, preserving its unique biodiversity and supporting native bird populations.
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Adventure Hotspots in Oban
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy hiking shoes
Supportive shoes protect your feet over gravel, roots, and beach sand on the island track.
Binoculars
Essential for bird watchers to spot distant and camouflaged species.
Rain jacket
A waterproof jacket shields you from Southland’s unpredictable rain showers.
spring;summer;fall;winter specific
Layered clothing
Dressing in layers helps adjust to varying temperatures during the walk.
spring;summer;fall;winter specific