Rakiura Track
Rakiura (Stewart Island) - remote coast, birdsong, and a real chance of seeing wild kiwi
The route
The line through Stewart Island / Rakiura, New Zealand - waypoints, elevation and the day-by-day shape of the walk.
Waypoints
- 1Lee Bay (Oban)Trailhead
Loop start near Oban
- 2Port William HutHut
Night 1; kiwi chances
- 3North Arm HutHut
Night 2
- 4Fern Gully / Oban (finish)Trailhead
Loop close
Season & conditions
Year-round
Wet, windy, cool; the famous mud
Open year-round; wet and muddy; ferry/flight to the island. Confirm.
On the trail
Coastal forest and boardwalk with a lot of mud
Non-technical walking/hiking; confirm any exposed or scrambly sections locally
Marked/waymarked route; navigation generally straightforward - carry a map and confirm locally
Suitable for reasonably fit hikers; not wheelchair accessible - confirm specifics
Wild kiwi (often seen/heard), abundant forest birds; kaka, weka
Quiet; a wild-feeling Great Walk
Longer North West Circuit for the hardy
Getting there & staying
Oban (Halfmoon Bay), Stewart Island
Ferry or flight from Bluff/Invercargill to Oban
DOC Great Walk huts (booked); carry a tent option
Layered outdoor kit, sturdy footwear, sun/rain protection, ample water; patchy mobile coverage - carry a map/PLB where remote
Services in Oban; limited or none on the trail
Not required; self-guided
Permits & safety
DOC Great Walk hut booking mandatory in season (fees higher for international visitors); sells out early - book at season opening. Confirm current fees.
Permits and operators change - confirm before booking.
Mud, wet cold weather, remoteness; ferry crossing can be rough
Retrace the route to exit; dial local emergency services; carry a means of calling for help where remote
This profile is desk research, compiled from public sources - not a first-hand trail report. Coordinates are approximate.