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. Find out more about the tour on Viator, Tripadvisor or Klook.

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 (more info on Viator and Tripadvisor) or Stewart Island Flights?

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

© NZPocketGuide.com

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.

© 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 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.

Finally, for a more down-to-earth experience, we have to mention the South Sea Hotel, 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.