The Rakiura Track offers New Zealand's most remote Great Walk experience, circling part of Stewart Island - the country's third main island and southernmost inhabited land. This 32km track combines coastal walking, native forest, and the chance to spot wild kiwi in their natural habitat, creating a uniquely New Zealand adventure that rewards those who make the journey south.
Stewart Island (Rakiura - "land of glowing skies") has only around 400 permanent residents but hosts some of New Zealand's most pristine wilderness. The Rakiura Track showcases this remote environment - coastal sections, dense forest, and the island's famous darkness (minimal light pollution creates spectacular night skies). It's the most accessible way to experience Stewart Island's wilderness among the Great Walks.
Stewart Island is one of the best places in New Zealand to see wild kiwi. The Rakiura Track passes through kiwi habitat - evening and early morning walks may reward with sightings. Remember: kiwi are nocturnal, so quiet night walks (with red-light torches only) offer the best chances. The track's relative accessibility makes it popular - availability alerts help secure summer dates.
Reaching the Rakiura Track requires commitment. Options include:
The ferry can be cancelled in rough weather - build flexibility into your plans. Oban (Halfmoon Bay) is Stewart Island's only settlement, with accommodation and supplies. The track starts and ends near Oban.
The track begins near Lee Bay, following the coast to Port William Hut. This relatively easy first day introduces the coastal forest and beach walking that characterises the track. Port William Hut offers beachfront accommodation with excellent swimming in summer.
The track climbs over the forested ridge to North Arm, a longer day through diverse vegetation. North Arm Hut sits on the shores of Paterson Inlet, offering another coastal night. The forest section provides kiwi habitat - early morning departures may spot them.
The final day follows the inlet shore back toward Oban, completing the circuit. The track passes through regenerating forest and offers varied coastal and forest walking. Allow time for the ferry or flight connection back to the mainland.
Despite its remote location, the Rakiura Track's unique character - kiwi spotting, darkness, remoteness - creates steady demand. Summer huts book out. Our availability alert system monitors for cancellations, helping you secure spots on this special southern adventure when plans change.
Stewart Island's southern location means changeable weather. Rain is common - quality wet weather gear essential. Summer (December-February) offers the warmest conditions and longest days. Winter brings shorter days but the track remains walkable for prepared trampers. The "land of glowing skies" earns its name - aurora australis visible in winter. See our weather guide for seasonal patterns.
The track lies within Rakiura National Park, established in 2002. The park protects 85% of Stewart Island - one of New Zealand's newest and most significant conservation areas. The track provides access to this protected wilderness while minimising environmental impact.
The Rakiura Track offers a different experience from alpine or coastal tracks. Its appeal lies in remoteness, kiwi spotting, and the Stewart Island experience. It's one of the easier Great Walks - good for first-time Great Walkers or those seeking a less physically demanding option. The logistics of reaching Stewart Island add to the adventure.
Rakiura's booking dynamics reflect its unique position:
The Rakiura Track delivers New Zealand's most remote Great Walk experience. With the chance to spot wild kiwi, experience southern darkness, and walk in pristine Stewart Island wilderness, this track rewards those who make the journey south.
Don't miss out on available spots! Set up an instant notification for your desired Great Walk dates and be the first to know about cancellations.
Get instant notifications when spots become available on your chosen dates and tracks.
See real-time availability across all Great Walks and plan your adventure.
Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.
Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.