Take a quick five-minute water taxi from Golden Bay to Ulva Island, a rare pest-free bird sanctuary in New Zealand. Wander native forest trails, spot rare birds, and soak up one of Stewart Island's most pristine natural settings.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2.5–3 hours on Ulva Island plus 5-minute boat ride each way
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; moderate walking on well-maintained trails
Wildlife
History
Ulva Island was designated a predator-free sanctuary in the 1990s, setting a benchmark for ecological restoration in New Zealand.
Conservation
Stringent biosecurity practices protect Ulva Island’s pest-free status, making every visitor a partner in conservation.
Rakiura Adventure Ltd
Take a quick five-minute water taxi from Golden Bay to Ulva Island, a rare pest-free bird sanctuary in New Zealand. Wander native forest trails, spot rare birds, and soak up one of Stewart Island's most pristine natural settings.
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.
Arrive Early at Golden Bay Wharf
Plan to arrive at least 10 minutes before departure; walking from Oban takes 10–20 minutes or 5 minutes by car.
Bring Your Own Food and Water
Ulva Island has no facilities for purchasing food or drinks; pack snacks and hydration for your day trip.
Wear Sturdy, Comfortable Footwear
Island trails feature natural terrain with roots and uneven ground—hiking shoes or strong sneakers are best.
Respect Wildlife and Sanctuary Rules
Maintain distance from birds and avoid introducing any pests; Ulva Island is pest-free for good reason.
Waterproof Jacket
Weather can change quickly; stay dry and comfortable during your island walk.
spring|fall|winter
Sturdy Walking Shoes
Good traction and ankle support help on uneven island trails.
Daypack with Water and Snacks
Bring your own provisions as there are no supplies available on Ulva Island.
Binoculars
Enhance birdwatching and wildlife viewing on this unique sanctuary.