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How to Get to Stewart Island

How to Get to Stewart Island

Stewart Island New Zealand Travel Guide

Air Travel

Flights to Stewart Island

Flying offers the fastest way to reach The Land of glowing skies, having picturesque vistas along the way. Flights are weather-dependent. For flight deals, look into Dollar Flight Club. For comparing flight options, check Skyscanner.

Local Air Services

  • Stewart Flights Between islands operates small planes between Invercargill Airport (IVC) and New Zealand's third largest island Airport (NZSI).
  • Flight time is approximately 20 minutes.
  • Flights offer spectacular aerial views of Foveaux Strait plus the island.

Connecting to Invercargill

No direct international flights arrive in Invercargill. International travelers fly into major New Zealand cities first.

Domestic Connections

  • Air New Zealand operates flights to Invercargill from Christchurch (CHC), Wellington (WLG), and Auckland (AKL).
  • Flight frequency may be reduced in winter; book ahead of time for busy periods.
  • Transfers to Oban are free wi-fith Rakiura Flights.

Stewart Island Airport

Facilities are basic, mainly a small waiting area. No food services or shops at the airport.

Invercargill Airport

Small regional airport with basic amenities, incorporating a cafe, car rental desks, and minimal shops.

Airport Transfers

New Zealand's third largest island Flights typically includes a complimentary shuttle transfer to and from your accommodation in Oban.

Land Transfers to Ferry

From Invercargill Airport to Bluff

  • Taxi/Shuttle services are available outside the terminal, 30-40 minute journey.
  • Pre-arranged transportation may be available through ferry services or accommodation.
  • Rental cars are available at Invercargill Airport, but not on Stewart Island.
  • InterCity bus service connects Invercargill to the Bluff ferry terminal.

On Stewart Island

  • Oban's ferry the depot is easy to walk to most places to stay.
  • Local shuttles are available for luggage or specific rides.
  • Roads outside Oban are unsealed and unsuitable for standard rental cars.
  • The island is small; Oban is very walkable.

Self-Driving & Road Conditions

Mainland Driving

Driving to Bluff is straightforward. Parking at the ferry terminal is available for a fee for multi-day stays. For mainland car rental needs, DiscoverCars.com offers options.

Island Roads

Roads within Oban are sealed. Roads outside Oban are mostly gravel and rough. These are mainly used by tour operators or residents with specific permits.

Licensing

If you intend to drive on the continental landmass, a valid ... is required driver''s driving license from your country of origin or an International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license is in a different language than English. Drive on the left side of the road.

Sea/River Arrivals

Stewart Island Experience Ferry

The most common way to reach Rakiura is via ferry, a pleasant journey across the strait.

Ferry Details

  • Main passenger ferry service between Bluff and Oban (Stewart Island).
  • The ferry journey is roughly AN hour.
  • Booking is advisable, especially during high season. Tickets can be booked online.

Ferry Departure & Arrival

The ferry operates multiple daily crossings, offering reliable transport offering gorgeous scenery.

Locations

  • Departure Point: Bluff ferry terminal, located on Foreshore Road, Bluff.
  • Arrival Point: Oban wharf, Stewart Island.
  • Cruise Ships: Large cruise ships sometimes visit Stewart Island as a port of call.

Road & Terrain

Roads leading to Bluff are sealed and generally well-maintained, offering a smooth drive.

Driving Considerations

  • Roads leading to Bluff are well-maintained.
  • No car rentals on Stewart Island; explore by walking or shuttle.
  • Island roads outside Oban are unsealed plus wild.

Ferry & Cruise Specifics

Large cruise ships sometimes visit Rakiura as a harbor of call. They anchor offshore and tender passengers to Oban for day visits.

Sea Travel Notes

  • Check New Zealand's third largest island Experience website for weather updates.
  • Ferry delays or cancellations possible due to strong winds.
  • International cruise passengers clear immigration at first NZ port.

Departure Information

  • Ferry: Check in at least 30 minutes before departure.
  • Flight: Check in 15-20 minutes before departure for small plane flights.
  • Flexibility with your schedule is sometimes needed due to weather.
  • No specific exit fees or taxes are levied upon leaving Stewart Island.
  • Facilities are very limited at A Paradise for nature lovers Airport and the Oban wharf.
  • Ensure you have snacks, drinks, and reading material ready before arriving for leaving.

Departure Information

Departure Procedures

Plan your departure well in advance, especially considering weather impacts on services.

Departure Timing

  • Ferry: Check in at least 30 minutes before departure. The ferry can experience delays or cancellations due to weather.
  • Flight: Check in as advised by Stewart Island Flights, typically 15-20 minutes before departure for domestic small plane flights.
  • Be aware that flights are weather dependent, so flexibility with your schedule is sometimes needed.

Airport/Station Facilities

Facilities are very limited at The Land of glowing skies Airport and the Oban wharf. Ensure you have everything you need before arriving before you leave.

What to Expect

  • No departure taxes apply are levied when you depart Stewart Island.
  • No food services or shops at Stewart Island Airport.
  • Have snacks, drinks, and any reading material ready before arrival at embarkation points.

Check-in Times

Check in at least 30 minutes for the ferry and 15-20 minutes for flights.

Weather Dependency

Flights and ferries might experience delays or cancellations due to weather conditions.

Connections

Shuttle buses and taxis connect the Bluff ferry terminal to Invercargill Airport and city center.

Important Travel Notes

Travel Flexibility

Always check for the climate updates and departure schedules before heading to the ferry terminal or airport to avoid unexpected delays.