Embark on a quick but unforgettable watertaxi ride to Bungaree Hut, revealing Stewart Island's wild coastline in just 40 minutes. Discover stunning landscapes and marine wildlife on this unique adventure.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
40 minutes
Fitness Level
No special fitness required, suitable for all
Wildlife
History
The waters around Stewart Island have supported Māori and European explorers for centuries, with this area historically vital for fishing and navigation.
Conservation
Rakiura Adventure Ltd emphasizes eco-friendly practices, helping preserve Stewart Island’s fragile ecosystems by minimizing environmental impact.
Rakiura Adventure Ltd
Embark on a quick but unforgettable watertaxi ride to Bungaree Hut, revealing Stewart Island's wild coastline in just 40 minutes. Discover stunning landscapes and marine wildlife on this unique adventure.
Rakiura Adventure Ltd is a Stewart Island–based operator located in Oban, Southland Region, providing water‑taxi transfers, scenic cruises, and guided access to key tramping tracks and island destinations.
The company operates short, scheduled water‑taxi services and private transfers to locations including Fred’s Camp, Port William, North‑Arm Hut, Rakeahua River, Freshwater River and Golden Bay / Ulva Island, enabling trampers to shorten multi‑day routes such as the North‑West Circuit and Southern Circuit.
In addition to practical track access, Rakiura Adventure Ltd runs half‑day and full‑day scenic and wildlife cruises around Paterson Inlet and Halfmoon Bay, as well as classic village boat tours around Oban aboard the vessel Ranui. Cruises include optional shore excursions and light snacks, and pelagic wildlife tours are offered for bird and marine‑life viewing.
Rakiura Adventure Ltd is featured on The Adventure Collective, and the business focuses on reliable transfers, clear departure times, and local navigational knowledge of tidal conditions. Service options include pack transfers, flexible departures, and short crossings to Ulva Island’s pest‑free sanctuary.
Safety practices follow local maritime regulations, and vessels are crewed by skippers familiar with Stewart Island waters. The company’s operations support efficient trip planning by shortening multi‑day treks by up to two days at certain drop‑off points, and provide scenic day‑walk and wildlife viewing alternatives for visitors to Oban. Rakiura Adventure Ltd is a practical, locally based choice for island access and coastal exploration.
Booking details and departure information are available via local visitor centres and the company's listing on The Adventure Collective.
Location
Oban, Southland
Base for all departures
Tours Offered
16
Water‑taxi and cruises
Transfer Times
5–40 mins
Fast access to tracks & islands
Classic Vessel
Ranui
Oban village boat tour
Shorten multi‑day treks, explore Ulva Island, or book a wildlife cruise from Oban — check schedules and reserve transfers through the listing on The Adventure Collective.
Wear waterproof gear
Ensure you have waterproof clothing to stay dry during the watertaxi ride.
Bring binoculars
Use binoculars for better wildlife viewing of seabirds and marine animals.
Book in advance
Reservations are recommended due to limited trips and popularity.
Check weather forecast
Weather conditions can change rapidly; plan accordingly for safety.
Weatherproof jacket
Protect yourself from rain and wind during the boat ride.
Binoculars
Enhance wildlife viewing from the boat.
Sun protection
Shield yourself from the sun during outdoor activities.
Comfortable footwear
Wear suitable shoes for exploring once ashore.