Stewart Island hotels

Top reasons to visit Stewart Island

• Stunning Natural Scenery: Stewart Island boasts breathtaking landscapes, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
• Birdwatching Paradise: The island is renowned for its diverse birdlife, offering exceptional birdwatching opportunities.
• Outdoor Adventure Activities: Visitors can enjoy activities like diving, hiking, and guided eco-tours in a pristine environment.
• Rich Cultural Experiences: Explore historic buildings, museums, and the island's fascinating heritage.
• Varied Accommodation Options: Choose from cosy motels to charming lodges, catering to all preferences and budgets.

Find great hotels near Stewart Island

Stewart Island offers a delightful selection of accommodation options for every traveller, from cosy motels to charming hotels. Whether you prefer a stay in the heart of Oban or a tranquil retreat within the accommodation complex, you’ll find a variety of choices to suit your preferences. Experience the natural beauty and welcoming atmosphere of Stewart Island while enjoying comfortable lodging that caters to your needs.

• Bay Motel: This welcoming 3-star hotel is a perfect retreat for adventure seekers, situated 25.7km from Stewart Island. Bay Motel offers a range of dining options, including a continental breakfast, ensuring a delightful start to your day. Guests can indulge in various recreational activities such as hiking and biking nearby, or enjoy fishing right on the premises. The hotel also provides entertainment features like satellite TV and premium channels, making it a great choice for relaxation after a day of exploration. The combination of comfort and outdoor adventure creates a distinctive stay for those looking to connect with nature.
• Kaka Retreat: Kaka Retreat is a charming 3-star motel located 25.7km from Stewart Island, ideal for those seeking a peaceful escape. The property offers public WiFi, allowing guests to stay connected while enjoying the serene surroundings. With its focus on simplicity and comfort, Kaka Retreat is perfect for travellers who appreciate a laid-back atmosphere. The nearby natural attractions provide ample opportunities for exploration, making it a convenient base for your adventures in the stunning Southland region.

Where to stay near Stewart Island

Stewart Island, a hidden gem of Aotearoa, offers a remarkable outdoor experience with its stunning scenery and friendly atmosphere. Ideal for adventure seekers, visitors can explore its pristine environment and charming villages. Accommodation choices range from cosy lodges to scenic campsites, providing a perfect base for discovering the island's natural beauty. Don't miss the adjoining islands and breathtaking landscapes that make Stewart Island an unforgettable destination for nature lovers.

• Ulva Island: Nestled 24.1km from Stewart Island, Ulva Island is a natural paradise renowned for its lush landscapes and vibrant wildlife. As a nature reserve, it offers a rich eco-friendly experience perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Visitors can enjoy scenic ferry rides to the island, where birdwatching opportunities abound, allowing you to see native species in their natural habitat. With peaks in visitor numbers from December to February, the island is ideal for those who love exploring caves, parks, and islands amidst stunning surroundings.
• Stewart Island / Rakiura: This charming suburb, located on Stewart Island, is a haven for outdoor adventurers and scenery lovers. With its visitor numbers peaking from November to January, the area offers breathtaking views of national parks and hills, making it a prime destination for nature walks and exploration. Whether you're hiking through lush landscapes or taking in the panoramic vistas, Stewart Island / Rakiura provides a unique blend of adventure and tranquillity for all who visit.
• Halfmoon Bay: Close to Stewart Island, Halfmoon Bay is a vibrant city that attracts many travellers seeking outdoor adventures and scenic views. Like its counterparts, visitor numbers peak during the summer months from December to February. Popular activities include ferry rides and birdwatching, with local attractions featuring beautiful parks, lookouts, and stunning waterfalls. This location is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying the picturesque coastal environment.

Things to do near Stewart Island

Stewart Island is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a plethora of activities that showcase its stunning scenery and adventurous spirit. Visitors can enjoy ferry rides, indulge in birdwatching, and partake in guided tours. For those seeking active adventures, options like diving and various outdoor pursuits abound, ensuring a memorable experience for all who venture to this picturesque destination.

Shopping

Near the ferry terminal, you can explore the unique offerings at the Stewart Island Gifts and Souvenirs shop, where local crafts and trinkets await. For a delightful selection of handmade items, visit the Island Gallery, showcasing the artistic spirit of Stewart Island.

Recreation

Experience the tranquility of Stewart Island's wellness retreats, where you can indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments and serene yoga sessions amidst nature. Explore the island's stunning landscapes through guided walks and birdwatching, allowing you to connect with the pristine environment and enhance your overall well-being.

Adventure

Explore the stunning landscapes of Rakiura National Park, where you can hike the breathtaking tracks, encounter unique wildlife, and marvel at the natural beauty of Stewart Island. For a thrilling experience, try kayaking in the crystal-clear waters, surrounded by dramatic coastlines and secluded beaches.

Nightlife

Stewart Island's nightlife is charming and intimate, featuring the Bunkhouse Theatre, located 25.7km away. Enjoy a captivating evening of romance and culture as you immerse yourself in local performances, blending entertainment with the island's unique atmosphere.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Stewart Island

For a budget-friendly trip to Stewart Island, consider visiting from June to August when prices drop. Booking accommodation about a month in advance can secure better rates, and Monday is typically the most economical day to stay. Use Expedia to filter for eco-certified hotels and sort prices from low to high for the best deals. Additionally, check for last-minute offers to save on lodging. Combine your hotel, flights, and activities for potential savings through package deals, ensuring a cost-effective adventure on this beautiful island.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Stewart Island are June to August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April to May and December, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Stewart Island is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Stewart Island is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Stewart Island is Sunday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to customise your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the most affordable prices and offers, sort the price filter from low to high.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy significant savings by combining your Stewart Island hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Stewart Island

Stewart Island offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and stunning scenery, making it an ideal destination for travellers seeking cultural experiences. Popular attractions include national parks, historic buildings, and history museums, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the island's rich heritage while enjoying its breathtaking landscapes. Whether you're keen on exploring nature or delving into local history, Stewart Island has something for everyone.

• Stone House: A historic building located 3.2km from Stewart Island, Stone House offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the area. Its charming architecture and serene surroundings provide a perfect setting for visitors looking to immerse themselves in local history.
• Rakiura Environmental Centre: Situated 3.2km from Stewart Island, this landmark is dedicated to the region's unique environment. It offers informative displays and interactive exhibits, making it an ideal spot for eco-conscious travellers eager to learn about Stewart Island’s ecosystems.
• Rakiura National Park: Located 16.1km from Stewart Island, Rakiura National Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With stunning scenery and numerous adventure trails, it promises unforgettable experiences amidst breathtaking landscapes, perfect for hiking and wildlife spotting.

Best time to go to Stewart Island

The best time to visit Stewart Island is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. January is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	57.2°F (14.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
February	57.0°F (13.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
March	55.2°F (12.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
April	52.0°F (11.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
May	48.6°F (9.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly High
June	44.8°F (7.1000000000000005°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
July	44.1°F (6.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
August	45.1°F (7.300000000000001°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
September	46.9°F (8.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
October	49.5°F (9.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	52.3°F (11.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	55.6°F (13.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Stewart Island

Accessing Stewart Island, Southland, New Zealand, is convenient via two major airports. Invercargill Airport (IVC) is situated 72.4km away from Stewart Island, with nearby accommodation options including Shelby Motor Lodge and Villa Rouge B&B, both 3.2km from the airport, offering 24-hour airport shuttles and free transportation services. Ascot Park Hotel, 4.8km from IVC, also provides free airport transportation. Alternatively, Stewart Island Airport (SZS-Ryans Creek) is just 24.1km from the island. Good hotel choices near SZS include Stewart Island Lodge, Bay Motel, and Kaka Retreat, all within 1.6km and offering airport transportation services.