Stewart Island Wild Kiwi Encounter

This is the best chance to witness the incredible wildlife of Rakiura / Stewart Island, including the elusive southern brown kiwi, known as tokoeka. Our adventures begin 1.5 hrs before the sun sets when you'll head out on a unique nature cruise at sea. Look out for rare marine life, such as tītī/mutton bird, toroa/albatross, hoiho/yellow-eyed penguin, kororā/little penguin, kekeno/New Zealand fur seal, and other wildlife from the boat. Cruise around Stewart Island’s smaller neighbouring islands (weather permitting) under beautiful evening skies with plenty of photo opportunities before you reach Little Glory Cove as dusk falls, your kiwi spotting location.

Before you disembark into the night, you'll learn about the tokoeka from our incredible guides. We'll take you across the peninsula and through the coastal forest by torch and starlight before arriving at a secluded sandy beach where elusive tokoeka are sometimes found feeding among the grasses and seaweed. Here, the walk will continue under the stars, searching for wild kiwi.

Stewart Island Wild Kiwi & Culture Encounter

Explore Oneke as day turns to night. "The Neck" is a special area and is a home to unique culture, wild kiwi and beautiful coastal landscapes. Listen to stories of the island’s rich Maori and European history and culture before searching for Rakiura tokoeka (Stewart Island brown kiwi) as night falls. Relax in the whare (Maori building) for a warming cup of cocoa, tea or coffee before your return cruise to Oban.