Stewart Island hotels

Top reasons to visit Stewart Island

• Stunning Natural Landscapes: Stewart Island boasts breathtaking scenery, with picturesque views and pristine environments ideal for exploration.
• Outdoor Adventures: Engage in activities like birdwatching, diving, and hiking in the beautiful Rakiura National Park.
• Cultural Experiences: Discover the island's rich history through local museums and historic buildings.
• Charming Accommodation: Enjoy a range of lodging options, from cosy motels to inviting hotels, ensuring a comfortable stay.
• Friendly Atmosphere: Experience the warm hospitality of the local community, enhancing your visit to this natural gem.

Find great hotels near Stewart Island

Stewart Island offers a delightful selection of accommodation options, from charming motels to inviting hotels, ensuring a comfortable stay amidst its stunning natural beauty. Whether you prefer a cosy retreat in Oban or a more expansive accommodation complex, you'll discover choices that cater to every traveller's needs. Enjoy the tranquillity of Stewart Island while experiencing warm hospitality in its various lodging establishments.

• Bay Motel: Experience a blend of comfort and adventure at Bay Motel, conveniently located 25.7km from Stewart Island. This 3-star lodging offers a delightful dining experience with options like Continental and daily breakfast. Guests can indulge in various recreational activities, including onsite fishing and nearby hiking and biking trails, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. The motel also provides entertainment options such as Satellite TV and premium channels, ensuring a relaxing stay after a day of exploration. With its welcoming atmosphere, Bay Motel is perfect for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.
• Kaka Retreat: Kaka Retreat offers a cosy and tranquil escape just 25.7km from Stewart Island. This charming 3-star motel is perfect for guests looking for a peaceful retreat. While the property provides basic amenities, what sets it apart is the access to public WiFi, allowing guests to stay connected while enjoying the serene surroundings. The relaxed atmosphere makes it an ideal choice for visitors seeking a laid-back experience, where they can unwind and immerse themselves in nature. Kaka Retreat is a great base for exploring the beauty of the region.

Where to stay near Stewart Island

Stewart Island, a stunning natural gem, offers a wealth of outdoor adventures and breathtaking scenery. Visitors can explore charming accommodation options and nearby islands, immersing themselves in the friendly atmosphere that defines this beautiful corner of Aotearoa. The island's pristine environment is perfect for nature enthusiasts, while its captivating landscapes provide endless opportunities for exploration. Discover the unique beauty of Stewart Island and create unforgettable memories during your visit.

• Halfmoon Bay: Nestled approximately 24.1km from Stewart Island, Halfmoon Bay is a charming coastal city that offers an array of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. This delightful destination experiences moderate seasonal traveller arrivals, peaking from December to February. Visitors flock here for the thrill of birdwatching and the convenience of ferry services that connect to the mainland. Notable local attractions include a picturesque park, breathtaking lookouts, and enchanting waterfalls, making it an ideal spot for those seeking both relaxation and adventure amidst nature.
• Ulva Island: Situated around 24.1km from Stewart Island, Ulva Island is a pristine nature reserve that captivates visitors with its eco-friendly allure and family-friendly experiences. This idyllic island park sees an influx of tourists from December to February, offering opportunities for birdwatching and exploration of its diverse flora and fauna. Highlights of Ulva Island include its beautiful caves, scenic parks, and the surrounding islands, providing a unique chance to immerse oneself in New Zealand's natural beauty while enjoying a tranquil getaway.
• Stewart Island / Rakiura: As a captivating suburb on Stewart Island, Stewart Island / Rakiura is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures. This island destination attracts visitors primarily from November to January, drawn by its stunning scenery and the thrill of exploration. The area is home to magnificent national parks, serene state parks, and impressive hills, offering endless opportunities for hiking, wildlife observation, and relaxation in nature's embrace. Stewart Island / Rakiura promises an unforgettable experience for those eager to discover its natural wonders.

Things to do near Stewart Island

Stewart Island offers a splendid array of outdoor activities, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. Engage in birdwatching to spot unique species, embark on scenic ferry trips, or dive into the crystal-clear waters for an unforgettable underwater experience. With its breathtaking scenery and opportunities for active adventures, Stewart Island is an ideal destination for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors and explore the region's natural beauty.

Shopping

Discover Stewart Island's local charm at the Oban Village Centre, where quaint shops offer unique gifts and souvenirs. Don't miss the Stewart Island Gift Shop for handcrafted items and local art. The relaxed atmosphere makes shopping a delightful part of your island experience.

Recreation

Stewart Island’s wellness retreats offer tranquil settings surrounded by nature. Experience rejuvenating spa treatments at the local retreats, where you can indulge in massages and holistic therapies. Engage in mindfulness walks along pristine beaches and scenic tracks, allowing the serene environment to refresh your spirit and enhance your well-being.

Adventure

Explore the Rakiura National Park with its scenic hiking trails and diverse wildlife, offering a chance to see kiwis in their natural habitat. Enjoy kayaking around the coastline for a unique perspective of the island's rugged beauty and pristine waters.

Nightlife

On Stewart Island, the Bunkhouse Theatre offers a charming blend of romance, culture, and entertainment. Located 25.7km from the main town, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy captivating performances and immerse yourself in the local artistic scene.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Stewart Island

For a budget-friendly trip to Stewart Island, consider visiting between June and August when accommodation prices are lower. Booking your hotel about a month in advance can secure better rates, especially on Mondays, the cheapest day to stay. Use Expedia's search tool to filter by budget and find last-minute deals. Combining hotel, flight, and activity bookings into a package can yield significant savings. Look for Eco-certified options to support sustainability while saving money. Enjoy the island's natural beauty through free activities like hiking and birdwatching for a fulfilling experience without extra cost.

• 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: Book your hotel around Stewart Island about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
• 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: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can organise your search results to display prices from the lowest to the highest, ensuring that the most affordable hotels appear at the top. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel category; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can make significant savings by combining your Stewart Island hotel reservations with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Stewart Island

Stewart Island offers a splendid mix of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, making it an ideal destination for tourists. Visitors can explore the picturesque landscapes of the Rakiura National Park, delve into the region's history at the local museums, and marvel at historic buildings scattered throughout the island. With its stunning scenery and rich heritage, Stewart Island promises an unforgettable getaway for those seeking adventure and cultural enrichment.

• Rakiura National Park: Located 16.1km from Stewart Island, this stunning national park offers breathtaking scenery and a plethora of outdoor adventures. Explore its lush landscapes, diverse wildlife, and scenic hiking trails that showcase the natural beauty of New Zealand's southernmost wilderness.
• Stone House: A mere 3.2km away, this historic building exudes cultural significance. Originally built in the 19th century, it provides insight into the region's rich history and heritage, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
• Rakiura Environmental Centre: Also located 3.2km from Stewart Island, this landmark serves as an educational hub. Visitors can learn about the island's unique ecosystems and conservation efforts, enhancing their understanding of Stewart Island's natural environment.

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

Travelling to Stewart Island is convenient with two main airports nearby. Invercargill Airport (IVC) is situated 72.4km away and offers excellent accommodation options like the 4.5-star Shelby Motor Lodge and Villa Rouge B&B, both located 3.2km from the airport, with the latter providing a free airport shuttle service. Additionally, Admiral Court Motel & Apartments, also 3.2km from IVC, ensures easy access. Alternatively, Stewart Island Aerodrome (SZS-Ryans Creek) is just 24.1km from the island, with nearby options including the Bay Motel and Stewart Island Lodge, both 1.6km away, offering airport transportation services for a hassle-free arrival.