Water Taxi & Scenic Tour with Rakiura Adventure Ltd
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1-2 hours
Fitness Level
No special fitness required, suitable for all ages
Overview
Discover Stewart Island in a whole new way with Rakiura Adventure Ltd’s scenic water-taxi tour—an exhilarating shortcut to wilderness. Perfect for walkers and photographers alike, experience the island's stunning coastline with ease and comfort.
Freshwater River Hut Watertaxi & Scenic Tour
Access to remote tramping tracks • 40 minutes each way • Tide dependent
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About This Adventure
Experience the breathtaking journey to Freshwater River with a convenient water-taxi ride, cutting your multi-day trek by up to two days. Enjoy the stunning scenery and the unique opportunity to customize your tour, all while navigating the beautiful tides that define this remarkable gateway to adventure.
Make your way to or from Freshwater River
Duration
40 minutes each way
About
Get your water-taxi to or from Freshwater River - the tide dependant gateway to the North-West and Southern Circuit tracks. This trip allows you to shorten your multi-day walk by up to two days. We can also customise a scenic tour of Freshwater River.
Times
Departures (from Golden Bay) – approximately one hour before high tide. Departures (from Freshwater river) approximately at high 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
Book in advance
Secure your spot early, especially during peak seasons.
Check tide schedules
Tide timing is crucial for a smooth and safe ride; plan accordingly.
Bring waterproof gear
Keep your valuables dry while riding through tidal waters.
Capture the scenery
Bring your camera to snap spectacular coastal views and wildlife.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Royal Albatross
- Hooker’s Sea Lions
History
Stewart Island was officially designated as a national park in 2005, preserving its unique ecosystems.
Conservation
The operator actively supports local conservation efforts to protect native species and habitats.
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Adventure Hotspots in Invercargill
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof jacket
Protects against wind and spray during the boat ride.
spring|summer|fall|winter specific
Camera/binoculars
Capture scenic views and spot wildlife from the boat.
Sunhat and sunscreen
Protection from sun exposure during daytime tours.
summer specific
Warm layers
Stay comfortable if the weather turns cooler.
winter|fall specific