Nature & Wildlife
Cruises
Hiking & Walking
Family-friendly Tours
Half-Day Tours
A Guided Walk Through Conservation in Action
Ulva Island is more than a scenic walk—it’s a living conservation success story. Home to endangered plant species and thriving native bird populations, the island’s lush rainforest of rimu, southern rātā, kamahi, and broadleaf plants offers a tranquil yet fascinating glimpse into New Zealand’s ecological efforts.
Your guide will share insights into the island’s biodiversity and its role in species recovery and protection. Whether you're a botanist, a birder, or just curious about New Zealand’s natural heritage, this experience leaves a lasting impression of what a thriving native habitat can look like.
DEPARTURE LOCATION
Stewart Island Ferry Terminal, Stewart Island
- Suitable for most ages and fitness levels
- Small group size
- Picnic lunches available to pre-order (Cut off at 12pm the day before travel)
WHAT'S INCLUDED
- Cruise of Paterson Inlet
- 45 minute guided walk on Ulva Island Wildlife Sanctuary
- On board nature guide
WHAT TO BRING
- Non-slip shoes/boots
- waterproof jacket
- warm sweater/fleece jacket
- sunscreen/ sunglasses
- insect repellent
- camera
- and personal medication (including for asthma and allergies)
PICNIC LUNCHES
- Must be pre-ordered prior to 12pm the day before travel.
- Includes: Filled roll, fresh fruit, brownie/muffin, dried fruits (raisins, berries, etc.), complimentary tea and coffee
Please note: If you require a vegetarian, diary free, gluten free or vegan lunch, please add this into the comments box during the booking process. Menus are indicative only.
AGE INFORMATION
- Adult: 16 years +
- Children: 4-15 years
- Infant: Under 4 years
CANCELLATIONS & REFUNDS
- More than 24 hours before departure: Full refund**.
- Within 24 hours: No refund
Note: **Refund excludes credit card or payment fees, which are non-refundable.
Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.*
Located within Paterson Inlet, Ulva Island is a sanctuary for viewing rare native species, including weka, kākā, kākāriki, tūī, bellbirds, pigeons, fantails, tomtit, brown creeper, saddleback, yellowhead, Stewart Island robin, and rifleman, many of which have been successfully reintroduced. Remarkably, some visitors have even spotted the Stewart Island brown kiwi during daylight hours. As part of Rakiura National Park and spanning approximately 269 hectares, Ulva Island is predominantly managed by the Department of Conservation and remains uninhabited by humans. It benefits from the support of the Ulva Island Charitable Trust, comprised of Stewart Islanders who contribute towards research, track and infrastructure maintenance, and bird releases.
