In the Maori language, Stewart Island is known as Rakiura, which translates as ‘the land of the glowing skies’. This name probably refers to the aurora australis, an atmospheric phenomenon which is often seen in the southern sky. About 85% of the island is a national park and there’s only one settlement of any size – Halfmoon Bay (sometimes called Oban), which offers a variety of accommodation. The majority of visitors come to hike the well-maintained tracks. Department of Conservation huts provide accommodation for overnight hikes. Offshore is Ulva Island, which is a predator-free bird sanctuary. It is accessible by water taxi.
Functional facts: Approx. population 420, Department of Conservation Visitor Centre, ferry service from Bluff.