Stewart Island Wild Kiwi Encounters

Both wild kiwi encounters depart from Stewart Island Experience, Main Wharf, Oban, Stewart Island.

Please check in 30 minutes before departure.

The weather on Rakiura can change quickly; please ensure you wear adequate footwear and are dressed for warmth, including a wind and waterproof jacket.

• Sturdy walking shoes/boots, no jandals or bare feet
• Waterproof jacket (soft and quiet where possible)
• Warm sweater/fleece jacket
• Camera (no flash photography around kiwi)
• Personal medication, including for asthma and allergies

• Return cruise transport on a comfortable catamaran
• Experienced nature guides (with a pack containing phone and first aid kit)
• Torch and complimentary hot drinks, tea, coffee or hot chocolate with biscuits

Age & Supervision:

• Wild Kiwi Encounters are suitable only for participants aged 15 years and older.

Physical Ability:

• Participants must be able to walk on uneven terrain, maintain balance, and manage steps and natural surfaces for the full duration of their chosen walk.
• Participants must be able to follow guide instructions, stay with the group, and safely navigate vessel decks or bus boarding/disembarkation.

Medical Conditions & Allergies:

• Disclose any relevant medical conditions (e.g., asthma, heart conditions, fainting history, injuries, chronic conditions).
• Participants with severe allergies must carry essential medication (e.g., EpiPen).

Pregnancy:

• Most walks are suitable depending on terrain and personal comfort.
• Participants should consider their fitness level and seek medical advice if unsure.

Clothing & Footwear:

• Sturdy, closed footwear is required.
• Weather-appropriate clothing and warm layers are essential.
• Avoid loose clothing or accessories that may catch on vegetation.

Behaviour & Compliance:

• All participants must follow guide instructions.
• Unsafe behaviour or participation under the influence of alcohol or drugs is prohibited.
• Guides may remove participants if behaviour or ability creates a risk to themselves or others.

Operational Changes:

• Walks may be altered or cancelled due to weather, track conditions, wildlife behaviour, or guide assessment.

Stewart Island / Rakiura offers remote, wild, and rugged natural environments. Our guided nature walks include travel by vessel and, for the Village & Bays Tour, by bus. Participants may encounter uneven terrain, bush tracks, sandy beaches, low-light conditions for kiwi experiences, and rapidly changing weather. While guides actively manage hazards, the natural environment is unpredictable, and access to emergency services can be limited.

Uneven terrain, slips & trips

Uneven tracks, roots, mud, slippery rocks and soft sand increase the risk of slips, trips and falls which may cause injury.

Coastal & beach hazards

Beaches, rocky foreshore and rising tides can cause slips, sudden immersion or cut-off access. Wind and waves can increase these risks.

Wildlife encounters

Stewart Island is home to native species including sea lions, kiwi, and ground-nesting birds. Wildlife—particularly sea lions—can behave unpredictably. Approaching or disturbing animals may cause serious injury. Follow guide instructions and maintain safe distances.

Night walking & low visibility

Evening walks such as the Wild Kiwi Experience involve low-light conditions, which increase the risk of trips, slips, or collisions with branches or obstacles. Participants should stay with their guide and follow instructions closely.

Landslip & rockfall

Tracks through bush or near slopes may be affected by landslips or fallen debris, particularly after heavy rain. These hazards can create unstable surfaces or obstacles that increase the risk of injury.

Earthquake & tsunami

New Zealand is seismically active. Earthquakes may cause ground movement, landslips, or track damage. Coastal areas may be at risk of tsunami following offshore events. Participants must follow guide instructions in any emergency situation.

Weather & exposure

Rapidly changing weather — including rain, wind, cold, or heat — may increase the risk of hypothermia, slips, or reduced visibility. Walks may be altered or cancelled for safety if conditions are unsuitable.

Allergies & insects

Sandflies, wasps, bees, and other insects are present. Native flora, dust, and pollen may also trigger allergic reactions. Participants with known allergies should carry any required medication.

Medical events, remoteness & limited emergency access

Walks take place in remote locations where communication is limited and emergency response may be delayed. Participants should disclose relevant medical conditions before the walk. Illness or injury may require extended evacuation times.

Transport risks

• Vessel transport is used for the Wilderness Walk, Wild Kiwi, and Ulva Island Walk. Vessel decks may be wet or uneven, and sudden movement may occur. Passengers must follow crew instructions.
• Bus transport is used for the Village & Bays Tour. Standard road and vehicle risks apply, including movement during travel. Seatbelts must be worn when provided.