Stewart Island

Saturday 08 March

Your adventure begins as we fly south to Dunedin. Begin with an afternoon city sights tour before enjoying a welcome dinner tonight at our central city hotel.

Sunday 09 March

A morning visit to Larnach Castle. Before returning to Dunedin for your own lunch and afternoon free to enjoy the ‘Edinburgh of the South’. Why not venture out to Signal Hill, the world’s steepest street or the Botanical Gardens. An optional tour to the Royal Albatross Centre on the Otago Peninsular is not be missed.

Royal Albatross Centre- Albatrosses are the world’s largest seabirds. They normally breed on remote islands and spend at least 85 percent of their lives at sea, well away from land and human view. Dunedin’s Taiaroa Head is the only mainland Royal Albatross breeding colony in the world and is a great day out from Dunedin. In March it is expected we will see a handful of chicks on their nests and if we are lucky an adult returning to feed- $65 per person

Monday 10 March

After breakfast we drive south to the Catlins. Highlights include podocarp forests, rugged coastlines, hidden lakes and stunning waterfalls. The natural landscapes are enthralling. 

Tuesday 11 March

Today fly to Stewart Island. On arrival we explore Oban with plenty of time for photo stops and short walks. The rest of the afternoon is free to enjoy the small township of Oban by foot.

Wild Kiwi Encounter- Cruise across Paterson inlet to Little Glory Cove. Ulva Island (a predator free sanctuary) and learn about Stewart Island’s rich history. The walk, led by your nature guide, is on a well-formed track across the peninsula, through spectator coastal forest to a secluded sandy beach. - $259 per person. 

Wednesday 12 March

A leisurely start before we enjoy a cruise of the beautiful Paterson Inlet and Ulva Island. The balance of the day is free to enjoy any number of walks or simply relax and enjoy the local atmosphere. Dinner is included tonight.

Stewart Island’s densely forested hills, tiny population and untouched coastline of rocky outcrops and creamy golden sand beaches make it a natural refuge for marine and bird life and a wonderful destination for people who value nature and wild places.

Thursday 13 March

Today fly to Invercargill. Free afternoon with time to explore New Zealand’s Southern most City before our farewell dinner.

Invercargill New Zealand’s southernmost city has plenty of character and a warm, friendly heart. Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco heritage buildings give the city a charming old-world character. Discover the world class vintage truck collection at Bill Richardson Transport World, alternatively, celebrate Invercargill’s motorcycle history at Classic Motorcyle Mecca and learn about the legend of speed - Burt Munro at E Hayes Motorworks. Take a guided tour through the Invercargill Brewery and discover that good beer is so much more than just bending your elbow. Visit Blue River Dairy, Southland’s Sheep Milk Café, where you can enjoy cheese tasting and a chance to try the best cheeseroll in Southland.

Friday 14 March

After breakfast transfer to the airport for our flight home.