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The Rakiura Track - Stewart Island

3-Day-Track

Imagine deserted beaches, quiet inlets and bays, lush primordial forests, roaring creeks, and gentle hills. If being immersed in this environment for a not-too-hard three day hike sounds appealing, then the Rakiura Track maybe for you

Many centuries ago Maori came by canoe to the island to harvest shellfish and mutton birds, traditions still carried out today by local iwi. They named the island Rakiura – ‘Land of the Glowing Skies’ as it is renowned for its lingering sunsets of summer and the Aurora Australis or Southern Lights.

The Rakiura Track is one of the New Zealand Great Walks. The loop track traverses country with a rich diversity of trees, ferns, and perching orchids. Along the way visit many historical sites with the chance to see a variety of sea and forest birds. The circuit follows the coast, climbs over a 300 metre high forested ridge, and skirts the sheltered shores of Paterson Inlet.

Huts and Campsites Port William and North Arm huts have sleeping spaces for 30 trampers. These are claimed on a first come, first served basis. Huts are supplied with mattresses, wood burning stoves for heating, running water and toilet facilities.

Distance: 36 km (22 mi, including road walk), 3 days.

Difficulty: There are two short uphill climbs. Be prepared to get muddy in the wet changeable weather. Expect mosquitoes and sandflies.

To view the elevation map – Click Here

Day 1 - Halfmoon Bay to Port William

Departing Halfmoon we transfer to Lee Bay. Subject to your preference and fitness we can take a side trip up Garden Mound (approx. 1.5 hours climbing to 162 mtrs or 530 frrt) where we enjoy the surrounding views. We continue on the coastal track through regenerating forest to Little River with its picturesque setting, and onto Maori Beach. Maori Beach, once the site of a Maori village and sawmill site, this has reverted to wilderness and has a lovely stretch of golden sandy beach. Lunch at Maori Beach, time to enjoy the golden sands and stories of early European history.

We continue along the track, past lush tree ferns to Port William Hut. During December to February and when huts are busy we use the nearby campsite, a few minutes walk from Port William Hut overlooking Magnetic Beach. Time for a swim for those who like cool waters!

Walking Time and Distance - 5 to 6 Hours 12 kms (7.5 miles)

Dat 2 Port William to North Arm Hut

We hike across the inland summit track through beautiful native forest and across swing bridges straddling small creeks. Taking time to enjoy the views from the lookout tower over to Paterson Inlet and the Tin Range in the South, before descending to North Arm Hut. During December to February and when Huts are booked out, we use the campsite at Sawdust Beach, 45 minutes walk from North Arm Hut.

Walking Time and Distance - 5 to 6 Hours 12 kms (7.5 miles)

Day 3 - North Arm Hut to Halfmoon Bay

We continue on and follow the northern shore of Paterson Inlet past Kidney Fern Arm and Kaipipi Bay, former sawmill sites showing little evidence of their past history, through towering native forest and onto Halfmoon Bay. On your hike you will immerse yourself in the tranquility and superb views of Paterson Inlet!

Walking Time and Distance - 5 to 6 Hours 12 kms (7.5 miles)