Stewart Island hotels

Top reasons to visit Stewart Island

• Stunning Natural Landscapes: Stewart Island boasts breathtaking scenery, perfect for hiking and outdoor adventures.
• Diverse Wildlife: The island is a sanctuary for unique wildlife, including native birds like the Kiwi.
• Rich Cultural Experiences: Explore local history through museums and historic buildings that reflect the island's heritage.
• Accessible Ferry Connections: Easily reach the island by ferry, making it convenient for visitors.
• Varied Accommodation Options: Enjoy a range of lodgings, from charming lodges to budget-friendly motels.

Find great hotels near Stewart Island

Discover the ideal accommodation for your visit to Stewart Island, New Zealand. Whether you prefer a charming lodge, a budget-friendly backpacker’s haven, or a comfortable hotel, there are various options to suit your needs. Explore reviews to find the perfect place that fits your style and enjoy the serene beauty of this captivating island.

• Bay Motel: Located 26km from Stewart Island, the 3-star Bay Motel boasts a splendid guest rating of 9.6 out of 10. This hotel offers a comfortable retreat with dining options, including a daily continental breakfast. Guests can engage in recreational activities such as fishing on-site and hiking or biking in nearby locations. Entertainment amenities include satellite TV and premium channels, making it an ideal choice for those seeking both adventure and relaxation during their stay.

Where to stay near Stewart Island

Stewart Island, or Rakiura, offers a stunning escape for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Visitors can immerse themselves in the island’s breathtaking scenery, friendly atmosphere, and diverse wildlife. Accommodations range from charming lodges to comfortable motels, catering to various preferences. Nearby, explore the South Island's picturesque towns, enhancing your experience with local culture and hospitality. Whether hiking in Rakiura National Park or enjoying coastal views, Stewart Island promises an unforgettable adventure.

• Halfmoon Bay: Halfmoon Bay is a quaint city located approximately 24km from Stewart Island, offering a unique travel experience that captivates visitors throughout the year. The peak seasons, from February to March and December, draw in outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers keen to explore its stunning scenery. Popular activities include taking the ferry for a picturesque journey and indulging in birdwatching, while the nearby national and state parks provide an excellent backdrop for nature lovers. Visitors can also marvel at historic buildings that add to the charm of this coastal gem.
• Stewart Island / Rakiura: As a suburb, Stewart Island / Rakiura is an island paradise that offers a serene escape for those looking to connect with nature. The area experiences moderate seasonal visitor numbers, peaking from November to January. It is renowned for its breathtaking outdoor scenery, making it an ideal destination for adventurers. The local national and state parks, alongside beautiful beaches, provide ample opportunities for hiking and exploring wildlife. The tranquil environment is perfect for those seeking relaxation amidst stunning landscapes.
• Oban: Oban is a charming village situated around 26km from Stewart Island, known for its seasonal influx of visitors, especially during the summer months of February to March and December. Adventurers flock to Oban for its outdoor activities and scenic views. The village is well-equipped with ferry services and birdwatching opportunities, making it an excellent base for exploration. Nearby attractions such as the national park and history museum offer insight into the region's rich heritage, ensuring a well-rounded travel experience.

Things to do in Stewart Island

Shopping

Explore local crafts and unique gifts at the Stewart Island Visitor Centre, where you can find souvenirs that reflect the island's charm. For a taste of the region, visit the local markets to discover handmade products and fresh produce crafted by local artisans.

Recreation

Rugged and tranquil, Stewart Island offers a range of wellness retreats amidst stunning landscapes. Engage in yoga sessions overlooking the ocean, indulge in spa treatments utilising local ingredients, or explore peaceful walking trails that connect you with nature's beauty, promoting relaxation and rejuvenation throughout your stay.

Adventure

Explore the rugged beauty of Rakiura Track, a stunning multi-day hike offering breathtaking coastal views, lush forests, and opportunities to encounter native wildlife. For a thrilling experience, try kayaking in Paterson Inlet, where you can paddle through serene waters while enjoying the island's picturesque landscapes.

Nightlife

Discover the lively atmosphere at the South Sea Hotel, where you can enjoy a hearty meal and local brews. For a more laid-back evening, visit the Rakiura Lodge Bar to unwind with friends and take in the stunning views of the bay.

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 is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers, boasting stunning scenery and rich cultural experiences. Visitors can explore national parks, historic buildings, and engaging museums, providing a blend of nature and history. Whether you're keen on hiking, wildlife spotting, or immersing yourself in local culture, Stewart Island offers a variety of attractions that cater to every traveller's interests.

• Rakiura National Park: Located approximately 16km from Stewart Island, this national park offers breathtaking scenery and a range of outdoor adventures. Explore lush forests, stunning coastlines, and diverse wildlife, making it an ideal spot for hiking and nature enthusiasts.
• Stone House: Situated 3km from Stewart Island, this historic building embodies the rich cultural heritage of the area. It provides insight into the early settlers' lives and showcases traditional architecture, making it a fascinating stop for history buffs.
• Rakiura Environmental Centre: Also located 3km from Stewart Island, this landmark focuses on local conservation efforts and environmental education. Visitors can learn about the unique ecosystems of Stewart Island and the importance of preserving its natural beauty.

Best time to go to Stewart Island

The best time to visit Stewart Island can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Stewart Island falls in January, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Stewart Island falls in July, 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	Average
May	48.6°F (9.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly High
June	44.8°F (7.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low
July	44.1°F (6.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average
August	45.1°F (7.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly High
September	46.9°F (8.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
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 via its major airports. Invercargill Airport (IVC), situated 72km away, offers a selection of nearby hotels such as the 4.5-star Homestead Villa Motel, Balmoral Lodge Motel, and Shelby Motor Lodge, all located 3km from the airport. Each of these motels provides easy access to the airport. Alternatively, Stewart Island (SZS-Ryans Creek) is only 24km from its namesake, with nearby accommodation options like the Bay Motel and Anchorstone, both around 1-3km away. The Stewart Island Lodge, a 4.5-star hotel, is also 2km from the airport and offers various transportation services including 24-hour airport shuttles.