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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

New Zealand

Essential Clothing Layers

Stewart Island weather changes quickly. Layering with moisture-wicking and quick-drying fabrics protects you from rain, wind, and varying temperatures.

Layering Guide

Specific Attire & Accessories

Pack additional items based on your activities. Dark, quiet clothing for night tours helps with wildlife viewing. Warm layers are suitable for boat trips.

Activity-Specific Dressing

  • Hiking: Comfortable, broken-in Hiking socks (merino wool recommended).
  • Wildlife Viewing: Dark, quiet clothing for night kiwi spotting.
  • Boat Tours: Warm layers, a Waterproof jacket, and a Hat due to wind chill on the water.

Footwear Recommendations

Hiking Boots

Waterproof, Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support are suitable for most tracks. Tracks can be muddy and uneven.

Required for trails

Casual Footwear

Comfortable walking shoes or sturdy Sandals are good for exploring Oban.

Suitable for town

Gaiters

Gaiters are recommended to keep mud and water out of your boots on longer tracks.

Recommended for longer hikes

Essential Documents

Travel Papers

Keep both physical and digital copies of your important travel documentation.

  • Passport and NZeTA/Visa Documentation: Valid passport, NZeTA/visa confirmation.
  • Travel Insurance Policy: Print and digital copies, emergency contacts.
  • International Driving Permit (if applicable): Useful for mainland driving.
  • Vaccination Records/Health Docs: Any advised records, prescription list.
  • Reservations: Copies of accommodation, ferry/flight, tour bookings.
  • Emergency Contact Information: Family, friends, local embassy/consulate.
  • Proof of Funds: Documentation of sufficient financial means for your stay.
  • ID Cards (Student/Senior/Press): Rarely applicable on Stewart Island, but may grant discounts on mainland.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

While Stewart Island encourages disconnection, some electronics remain useful. Ensure your devices are powered and connected. For a secure connection, consider NordVPN or ExpressVPN. For convenient mobile data, Airalo eSIMs offer connectivity.

Power & SIM Card Details

  • Power Adapter: New Zealand uses 230V, 50Hz, Type I plug. Bring a Universal adapter with Type I compatibility.
  • Mobile Phone Compatibility: Most modern smartphones compatible. SIM cards available for purchase on mainland.
  • Cell Coverage: Limited to Oban and parts of the east coast. No SIM retailers on island.

Photography & Navigation

Capture the island's beauty and navigate its trails with suitable equipment. For camera gear and electronics, explore B&H Photo.

Recommended Gear & Apps

  • Camera Equipment: Waterproof or water-resistant camera, Binoculars for birdwatching, a Tripod for night photography.
  • Portable Chargers: Useful due to limited charging points on trails.
  • Recommended Apps: Maps.me/OsmAnd (offline maps), DOC Walks, MetService NZ (weather), Aurora Australis apps.

Data Backup & Security

Cloud Storage

Use cloud storage for photos and important data.

External Hard Drive

An External hard drive for additional backup of memories.

Digital Copies

Keep digital copies of important documents accessible.

Health & Wellness Items

Medical Essentials

Pack a practical health kit for common travel ailments and the island's specific conditions.

Personal Medicine & First Aid

  • First Aid Kit: Standard items like Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers. Blister treatment or Moleskin is useful.
  • Prescription Medications: Carry these in their original packaging with a copy of your prescription.
  • Over-the-Counter Meds: Remedies for common issues like headaches, stomach upset, and allergies.

Environmental Protection

Protect yourself from common environmental concerns like sandflies and high UV levels.

Sun & Insect Protection

Specific Health Concerns

Motion Sickness

  • Consider Motion sickness medication if you are prone to seasickness on the ferry.
  • The Foveaux Strait can be rough at times.
  • Over-the-counter remedies are generally available.

Sandfly Relief

  • Sandflies are common, especially near water.
  • Bites are itchy and can last for days.
  • Carry an after-bite itch eraser for relief.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking Gear

Essential items for exploring the island's extensive trail network.

Camping Essentials

If you plan to camp, bring appropriate shelter and sleeping gear.

  • A lightweight tent.
  • A Sleeping bag rated for cool temperatures.
  • A sleeping mat for insulation.
  • Cooking equipment if self-catering.

Wildlife Viewing

Enhance your chances of spotting rare birds and other animals.

  • Binoculars for distant viewing.
  • A red-light Headlamp for night kiwi spotting.
  • Camera with good zoom capabilities.
  • Quiet, dark clothing.

Equipment Decisions

Bring Your Own

  • High-quality hiking and outdoor clothing.
  • Good quality waterproof boots.
  • Daypack and multi-day pack (if needed).
  • Specialty medications and specific hiking food.

Renting Options

  • Rental options on Stewart Island are limited.
  • Some accommodations may offer limited gear.
  • Best to bring your own high-quality Gear.
  • Bicycle rentals have limited availability.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

These small items make a difference for comfort and peace of mind during your journey.

Travel Comfort

Sustainable & Practical

Adopt sustainable travel practices and bring items that are difficult or expensive to obtain locally.

Practical Items

  • Reusable water bottle: Tap water is safe, helps reduce plastic waste.
  • Reusable shopping bag: New Zealand has banned single-use plastic bags.
  • Reusable coffee cup: Useful for takeaway coffees.
  • High-quality outdoor gear & specialty medications: Best brought from home, groceries more expensive.

Eco-Conscious Travel

Reusable Water Bottle

Reduce plastic waste.

Reusable Bag

For shopping, single-use plastic bags are banned.

Reusable Coffee Cup

For takeaway beverages.

Leave No Trace

Pack out what you pack in.

Island-Specifics

Essential for Stewart Island

  • Strong personal insect repellent for sandflies.
  • High SPF sunscreen due to intense UV levels.
  • Reliable waterproof and windproof outerwear.

For Remote Exploration

  • Satellite phone or PLB for remote hiking safety.
  • Offline maps and a compass for navigation.
  • Snacks and drinks, as remote facilities are non-existent.

Smart Packing Tip

Pack light and efficiently. A well-organized backpack makes travel easier and more comfortable.

Consider packing cubes to compress clothing and organize your belongings. Bring a small, foldable secondary bag for day trips or souvenirs.