2 hour(s) 30 minute(s)
English
Included
Cruise through scenic Paterson Inlet on modern catamaran
Guided walk through Ulva Islands lush forest habitat
Spot rare and endemic birds with Nature Guardians
Learn about regions rich cultural and natural history
€ 36.8
This activity is managed by our trusted partner FareHarbor.
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Free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling leads to total flexibility while you plan your travels
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Discover the natural beauty and unique wildlife of Stewart Islands renowned birdlife sanctuary, Ulva Island, on this immersive two and a half hour tour. The experience begins with a scenic cruise through the sparkling waters of Paterson Inlet aboard a modern and comfortable catamaran. As you glide across the inlet, you can admire the lush coastal forests, sheltered bays, and abundant marine life that make this area so special. Knowledgeable guides provide fascinating commentary on the regions history, ecology, and wildlife, ensuring you gain a deeper appreciation for the natural environment. The small group sizes allow for a more personal and engaging experience, giving each visitor the opportunity to connect with the scenery and learn from the guides insights.
After the cruise, embark on a forty five minute guided walk through the pristine habitats of Ulva Island. Here, Nature Guardians lead you along well-maintained tracks, pointing out native bird species and unique plants while sharing stories of the islands rich cultural and natural history. Guests have the chance to spot rare and endemic birds such as saddlebacks, tui, and parakeets, making this a memorable and educational wildlife experience. This tour combines relaxation, exploration, and discovery, offering visitors a safe and accessible way to experience one of New Zealands most treasured ecological sanctuaries while enjoying the stunning landscapes of Stewart Island.
Catamaran cruise through Paterson Inlet
Guided walk on Ulva Island
Expert Nature Guardian commentary and wildlife spotting
Small group guided experience
Personal expenses
Gratuities
Warm layers and rain jacket
Comfortable walking shoes
Hat and sunglasses
Camera
Tour operates in various weather conditions
Comfortable walking shoes recommended for guided walk
Suitable for most ages and fitness levels
Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Type in your hotel/accommodation to see how far the attraction or departure point is.
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An excellent outing that was made so much better by our guide Jan. She really knows her stuff and her energy and enthusiasm for showing off this beautiful Island was apparent. Would have been nice to see more bird life but we were still well pleased with what we observed.
Definitely worth it. The Island and bird life, so beautiful. The staff were all so friendly. Karen our guide on Ulva Island was so knowledgeable/friendly/great sense of humour, she made our trip.
The entire activity was great and our guide, Natasha, was excellent. We saw many birds close up including one endangered type. Highly recommended.
We thoroughly enjoyed our Ulva island tour. Although we didn't see as many birds as we'd have like during the walk, we did see a number of white capped mollymawks, Buller's mollymawks and a Northern Royal Albatross. Our guide was very knowledgeable about the vegetation so we learned a lot about the native trees.
Wonderful walk. Easy ace and not difficult. Fantastic team. Awesome to see sealions (and they were big), the little yellowhead including older fledglings, see and hear kaka & their noisy calling .... very informative. Many thanks to the team including guide Jac...a great experience.
Took the Rakiura Water Taxi ($30 return) to Ulva Island with Dan and spent 3 hours walking around - make sure to book your spot! Just followed the tracks (we’d bought a $2 Ulva Island booklet at the DoC info centre the day before) and used the booklet. If there’s a seat on the track be sure to stop and listen, chances are you’ll see/hear some awesome birds! Great way to see what predator free looks like for the bird life. Definitely a must do when you come to Stewart Island (bring your togs if the weather is nice too!) pack some snacks and don’t forget some water. Plenty of toilet stops (& they don’t smell either!!) Didn’t really need sandfly repellent.
Absolutely beautiful, so many birds just wondering around and beside you. I saw parakeets, Robins and so many more out here. The key was to walk slow and you see so much more - don't hike at hikers usual pace, you won't see anything at all. Take your time, listen and pay attention to what you are looking at. You don't need a guide on this walk, just the taxi of $20 round trip and you are sorted. The guide books are $2 when you arrive and are very helpful - everything explained.
I loved every minute of the island, there is just so much to see and all the pathways are so well marked and you can walk the entire island in a couple of hours at your own leisure that you really don't need a guided tour but if that's your preference then by all means. What I will recommend is that you take your time, enjoy the beautiful scenery and you are bound to see and hear the most wonderful birds the island has to offer.
Am amazing island fantastic bird sanctuary and native wildlife programs here. Absolutely worth a trip. Zero rats, mice and pests here. Lots of Kiwi walking around in daylight hours. You can also meet gadget the rat checking dog before you begin your journey. Great walk ways amazing plants trees and water ways. Check in with the DOC team for best places to go.
Fabulous island. I was there early morning in winter and for a while I had the place to myself. Superb beaches in isolated coves. Amazing forestry and wildlife. I only had 2 hours there and it wasn't enough. Allow at least 4 of you want to really enjoy and savour the place. Photos really don't do it justice.
