Nature & Wildlife
Cruises
Hiking & Walking
Half-Day Tours
About the Rakiura Tokoeka
The Rakiura tokoeka is a southern brown kiwi found on Stewart Island. Tokoeka are taonga to Rakiura Māori and are closely connected to the island’s natural and cultural identity.
Unlike many kiwi populations, Rakiura tokoeka may sometimes forage during daylight, although evening and night remain the best times to search for them. Their wild behaviour means sightings can never be guaranteed.
Highlights
- Search for wild Rakiura tokoeka in their natural habitat
- Cruise among Stewart Island’s remote islands and coastal scenery
- Watch for penguins, albatross, fur seals and other marine wildlife
- Walk through native coastal forest after dark
- Learn about kiwi behaviour, habitat and conservation
- Enjoy a small-group evening experience led by local nature guides
- Return cruise from Oban to Little Glory Cove
- Approximately 1.5 hours of scenic wildlife cruising
- Guided evening kiwi walk
- Experienced nature guides
- Torch for the walking section
- Complimentary hot drinks and biscuits
Please note: Overnight stay in Stewart Island is required. This is not included in the cost.
What to Bring
- Sturdy walking shoes or boots
- Warm layers
- A soft, quiet waterproof jacket
- Insect repellent
- Personal medication
- Camera, with flash switched off around kiwi
- Duration: Approximately 4.5 hours
- Departure point: Main Wharf, Oban
- Destination: Little Glory Cove
- Experience: Evening wildlife cruise and guided kiwi walk
- Walking time: Approximately 2 hours
- Minimum age: 15 years
- The walking section lasts approximately two hours and follows uneven coastal tracks that may be muddy or slippery. Guests must be able to walk independently for more than 1.5 kilometres in low-light conditions.
- Sturdy closed footwear is required. The tour is not recommended for anyone who has difficulty balancing, walking over uneven ground or keeping pace with a guided group after dark.
- More than 24 hours before departure: Full refund**.
- Within 24 hours: No refund
Note: **Any refund approved under our terms and conditions will be subject to a 5% admin & processing fee, which will be deducted from the refund amount. Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.*
