22 October, 2021
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The best chance most people will ever have to see New Zealand's national bird, the kiwi, in its natural environment. Breathe fresh sea air, hear rare bird calls and enjoy the solitude of Stewart Island. Travel by light plane to the island then walk and water taxi your way across the island to Halfmoon Bay.
Many centuries ago Maori came by canoe to the island to harvest shellfish and mutton birds, traditions still carried out today by local iwi. They named the island Rakiura - 'Land of the Glowing Skies' as it is renowned for lingering summer sunsets and the Aurora Australis or Southern Lights. Rakiura National Park covers much of Stewart Island, and is New Zealand's 14th National Park.
The 4.5 day guided walk takes a nice loop across Stewart Island. Starting in the southern town of Invercargill you travel to Mason Bay on the West Coast of Stewart Island. Then walk and water taxi your way across the island to Halfmoon Bay. A visit to the stunning open sanctuary Ulva Island and some time to explore Halfmoon Bay before flying back to the mainland at Invercargill.
