LOGISTICS
Getting to Stewart Island:
The
Foveaux
Express catamaran runs a regular
service from Bluff to the island, with morning and afternoon crossings. The
trip takes about an hour, disembarking at the Halfmoon Bay wharf. Look out
for Albatross and Sooty Shearwater while sailing, they are often seen from
the deck, especially if there is a fishing boat near by.
Stewart Island Flights
operate out of Invercargill, with several planes a day. On average the trip
takes about 20 minutes. Flying over Paterson Inlet before landing, gives
you a sneak preview of the beaches and numerous islands. The view from the
plane is pretty spectacular, giving you an idea of the huge scale of the
island.
Department of Conservation - Visitor Information:
As much of Stewart Island is now a National
Park, DoC plays a big role in it's management. The DoC/Visitors Centre is
definitely worth a visit before you set out on your adventure, they have
loads of info on the island, some great old videos and displays. All tracks
are managed from here, so it's the place to get hut passes and info on what
the track conditions are. They also hire out Locator Beacons. Daily
weather forecasts are displayed daily. Email:
stewartislandfc@doc.govt.nz
Phone:
For bookings and information phone
Liz or Heath 03 2191
160
Email info@bunkersbackpackers.co.nz