The Honeymoon & Romantic Getaway Guide to Stewart Island

© RealNZ

Adventure Activities for Couples

As 80% of the island is clad in a national park, Stewart Island’s activities are all about embracing nature. With that in mind, arguably just about any activity on Stewart Island can be classed as romantic, from strolls along gorgeous beaches to an island excursion amidst a wildlife sanctuary. Let’s talk more about the latter…

Experience Ulva Island

Ulva Island is a pest-free sanctuary just a 10-minute boat ride from Golden Bay. You can either take one of the many ferry options and independently explore the island, which thrives in all kinds of birdlife or join a guided tour to get more out of the experience.

RealNZ/Stewart Island Experience offers guided tours on the island including a cruise showcasing hidden coves and unspoiled beaches.

Hiking on Stewart Island

More about Stewart Island’s national park, the Rakiura National Park is best explored on the myriad of multi-day hiking trails around the island. It’s the ultimate adventure together, trekking from secluded beaches to windswept forests where spotting a kiwi bird roaming in the daytime is not uncommon.

One of the multi-day hikes is the Rakiura Track, a three-day loop that is classed as a New Zealand Great Walk incorporating beach, bush and historical sites. Learn more about the multi-day hikes in the Rakiura National Park – Guide for Backpackers.

Scenic Flights and Cruises

An, admittedly, more relaxing way to take in the sights and sounds of Stewart Island is via a scenic cruise or flight. All of Stewart Island’s tours in these categories are intimate excursions where you’ll either be a couple of only a few guests on the tour (or likely the only ones!)

Cruise across the ever-changing scenery of the Freshwater River with Rakiura Charters & Water Taxi or Rakiura Adventure. Or how about soaring the skies with remote beach landings with Stewart Island Helicopters or Stewart Island Flights?

Find out more about all of the above experiences in the 10 Romantic Activities on Stewart Island for Couples.

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Romantic All-Weather Activities

Even when the weather isn’t cooperating, there are still experiences to share together on a romantic getaway to Stewart Island.

Greenstone Carving

Make it memorable with a greenstone carving workshop. Join Rakiura Jade for a day of cutting, carving and polishing a genuine greenstone pendant for each other, following the Maori tradition of only making a pounamu pendant to gift to someone, rather than for yourself.

With the guidance of master carver, Dave Goodin, you’ll enjoy a relaxing day creating a memorable piece of jewellery from a waterfront workshop with gorgeous views of Halfmoon Bay.

Stewart Island’s Boutique Cinema

A way to at least kill 45 minutes on a rainy day in Oban is by going to the cinema. That’s right, even the tiny settlement of Oban has its own cinema, but it’s one with a difference…

The Bunkhouse Theatre is a boutique cinema that may show independent films, but it is most famous for its own production, “A Local’s Tail”. Watch the story of Stewart Island’s history and local culture from the perspective of one of the island’s most adorable residents, Lola the Dog.

Cosy up in the cinema room with fresh warm popcorn while snuggling under a blanket.

For rainy day alternatives, check out the 10 Things to Do on Stewart Island on a Rainy Day.

© Anchorstone

Where to Stay: Accommodation on Stewart Island for Couples

It’s as if Stewart Island was made for couples with an array of boutique lodges, B&Bs and even an adults-only motel setting the right tone for a peaceful stay.

Although we outline all your options in the 10 Best Romantic Accommodations on Stewart Island, here are some of our top picks for couples.

Anchorstone – Hilltop Hideaway Near Oban

Book yourselves into one of the romantic hill-perched units of Anchorstone, a boutique motel nestled in bush and just a short drive from Oban.

Enjoy a quiet night in with your unit’s kitchen facilities, an ensuite, TV and a balcony with outdoor furniture for watching the sunset or stargazing in a Dark Sky Sanctuary.

Each timber-constructed unit is also kitted out with a super-king bed. Transfers are included in your stay while car rental is available on request.

Learn why Anchorstone is ideal for couples seeking peace and privacy, and book your stay through Booking.com or Expedia!

Church Hill Boutique Lodge & Restaurant – Luxury Suites with Spectacular Views

Another luxury lodge on Stewart Island, Church Hill Boutique Lodge & Restaurant offers three standalone suites with private elevated balconies either overlooking Halfmoon Bay, Oban’s fishing bay or kamahi forest.

While all suites offer luxuries like a coffee machine, home baking and full glass frontage for soaking in the views, only one of the rooms has the exclusivity of a private wood-fired hot tub so you can soak under the stars with your loved one.

See why Church Hill Boutique Lodge is perfect for a romantic retreat, and reserve your stay through Booking.com!

© Church Hill Boutique Lodge & Restaurant

Romantic Restaurants on Stewart Island

While most wouldn’t think to come to Stewart Island for the cuisine, many are surprised to find there is a small dining scene with a couple of romantic offerings that rival restaurants in some of New Zealand’s largest towns.

For instance, Church Hill Boutique Lodge & Restaurant(36 Kamahi Road, Oban) offers a boutique dining experience with exclusively eight guests per evening. Indulge in the freshest and most local fare in a delectable three-course meal.

With Stewart Island Moveable Feast provided by Observation Rock Lodge, a romantic dining experience can be brought to you! Catering to special occasions or even just a romantic night in, the team offers gorgeously presented spreads that never fail to impress. It makes for a special addition to your romantic getaway to Stewart Island.

For a more down-to-earth experience, we have to mention the South Sea Hotel (26 Elgin Terrace, Oban), which is essentially the local pub. It’s a fun place to people-watch while indulging in some local dishes, such as Stewart Island blue cod, a trio of Stewart Island-farmed salmon, Stewart Island crayfish and Southland venison.

For a romantic escape, settle into The Snuggery Café (9 Ayr Street, Oban), known for its relaxed vibe and hearty meals, or Just Café (6 Main Road, Oban), loved for its great coffee and homemade treats. Both offer a warm, intimate atmosphere in Oban, perfect for couples looking to slow down and enjoy Stewart Island together.