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.
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.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Rakiura Adventure Ltd · Oban, Southland Region
easy.
2.5–3 hours on Ulva Island plus 5-minute boat ride each way.
Suitable for most fitness levels; moderate walking on well-maintained trails
The water taxi ride takes approximately five minutes each way.
No, there are no facilities on the island; visitors must bring their own provisions.
Yes, Rakiura Adventure Ltd offers guided walks, or you can freely walk the marked trails at your own pace.
This service is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with severe back injuries due to potential boat movement.
We recommend a minimum of 2.5 to 3 hours to adequately enjoy the island’s trails and wildlife.
Yes, booking in advance is required as Ulva Island is a day-trip destination with limited boat capacity.
Ulva Island was designated a predator-free sanctuary in the 1990s, setting a benchmark for ecological restoration in New Zealand.
Stringent biosecurity practices protect Ulva Island’s pest-free status, making every visitor a partner in conservation.
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.
Book with Rakiura Adventure Ltd