Water-activities & Rakeahua River Hut Watertaxi | Rakiura Adventure Ltd
Difficulty
easy
Duration
30–45 minutes
Fitness Level
Minimal fitness required, suitable for most travelers
Overview
Take a high-speed water-taxi to Rakeahua River and unlock access to Stewart Island's rugged wilderness. This trip offers stunning scenery and a quick route into the iconic Southern Circuit trail, making your adventure seamless and unforgettable.
Rakeahua River Hut Watertaxi
Access to remote tramping tracks • 40 minutes each way • Tide dependent
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About This Adventure
Experience the thrill of a water-taxi ride to Rakeahua River, the gateway to the stunning Southern Circuit tramping track. This unique journey not only immerses you in breathtaking scenery but also shortens your multi-day trek by up to two days, making it an unforgettable adventure in nature.
Make your way to or from Rakeahua River
Duration
40 minutes each way
About
Get your water-taxi to or from Rakeahua River - the tide dependant gateway to the Southern Circuit tramping track. This trip allows you to shorten your multi-day walk by up to two days.
Times
Departures (from Golden Bay) – approximately one hour before high tide. Departures (from Rakeahua River) approximately at hight tide.
Tide tabling for these rivers are based on Bluff tide times.
Please call to book if there are no online options available for your dates.
Please Note
We have made a generalised time slot for this item which does not correlate with the time-tidetable which governs when we can go to and from this destination, please contact us directly on rakiuraadventure@xtra.co.nz or call us on +64272898292
Please be at the departing location 10 mins prior to departure time.
Adventure Tips
Secure your belongings
Keep valuables in waterproof cases to protect them from splashes during the water-taxi ride.
Check weather conditions
Ensure good weather for a smooth ride and the best viewing experience.
Arrive early
Be at the dock 15 minutes before departure to prepare comfortably.
Dress appropriately
Wear layers and waterproof clothing for comfort regardless of weather.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Kiwi (nocturnal, watch for sightings at night)
- Royal Albatross (nearby coastal areas)
History
Stewart Island has a rich history of Maori and European exploration, with the island playing a vital role in local fishing and shipping routes.
Conservation
Rakiura Adventure Ltd emphasizes sustainability, following best practices to minimize environmental impact and support local conservation efforts.
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Adventure Hotspots in Invercargill
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof backpack
Keeps your belongings dry during the water-taxi ride in case of splashes.
Layered clothing
Adjustable layers keep you comfortable in changing weather conditions.
Camera or binoculars
Capture scenic views or spot wildlife during the ride.
Sun protection
Use sunscreen and hat to protect against sun exposure during the trip.
summer specific