Firstly we always suggest a scenic tour of the Island roads ..... all 28k of them.....with "Sails" Scenic Tours. This is a great way to "get your bearings" and also to learn about the Island and what life here was and is like. And for Brits we will definitely retrace Billy's visit to "The Chain" and for American's we'll show you where "Sam the Cooking Guy" visited. Perfectly complements our "Sails" Guided Ulva Is Walks Transfers are included for all "Sails" and Talisker activities.
Suggestion............ Our weather can be very changeable. If you are staying at Sails Ashore or Kowhai Lane we are happy to advise on when to do things to make best use of the fine periods.
The Local Museum......gives a glimpse of the Island communities past. It's open most mornings.
DoC (Dept of Conservation) Visitor Centre. ...... DoC have a great display including Audio Visual and static displays.
Glowing Skies .... Locally produced high class casual clothing.
The Fernery .....Crafts with an Island Theme.
Fishing .... Off a rock or on a fishing charter, catch your supper
Within the Village
& InletThere is lots to do when you visit the Island. So much so that the Island really deserves a stay of at least two nights for even the most cursory of visits. It's a great place to relax and recharge "Mid Holiday" and to explore at your own pace. Remember if you decide to join at us at "Sails" you will be part of a either a very small group or exclusive to you. We are available on demand, to suit your timetable and the day.
"Talisker"......Scenic exploration of Paterson Inlet or further afield is a great way to soak up the history, natural history and scenery in a comfortable and leisurely fashion. Visit a seal colony.
A fishing trip...... is an obvious one and several boats offer the chance to catch Blue Cod, the local delicacy. We are happy to oblige for guests wanting an exclusive trip aboard Talisker, perhaps to view the pelagic birds that flock around the boat and visit a seal colony at the same time. Or we can organise a place aboard a suitable vessel.
Glass-bottomed...... boat to view the underwater world..
Kayaking......an excellent way to explore the bays at your own pace.
Salmon Farm.......a short water taxi trip across Paterson Inlet
Boating
Local.......From a few minutes along the graded metal paths of Raroa Reserve and the Fuchsia Walk, to a couple of hours around the Deep Bay Track, Ackers Point or perhaps to Kaipipi Inlet along the old mill road. Every corner opens vistas of serene native forest or deserted beaches. A great way to enjoy a few hours.
Observation Rock......3 minutes walk from Sails Ashore, enjoy our wonderful sunsets. Rakiura means "Land of Glowing Skies"
Ulva Island Open Sanctuary......is an absolute must do. The trails are metalled ( suitable for handicapped visitors) and very easy. Enjoy the guided experience with us or explore the island solo, using the DoC interpretive booklet. We do water-taxi's as well.
The Rakiura Track.....is three days easy to moderate stroll (DoC Huts available) through forest and along coastal tracks. Very popular. (This is a NZ Great Walk)
The Northern Circuit.......This is the "Biggie", and involves at least 8 days. DoC Huts are available 4 to 8 hours apart. There is a real chance of seeing Kiwi and the scenery is just stunning. This track requires a high level of fitness and experience.
Stewart Island is a walkers paradise
South Seas Hotel. .....Excellent NZ country cooking with more than a touch of European sophistication (The Chef is German)
The Kai Cart..... The best fish & chips in the world. Eat in or take-away.
Just Café.......Coffee, internet, homemade muffins and salmon sandwiches
Church Hill Restaurant.....Beautiful setting overlooking Halfmoon Bay.
Ship to Shore........ The local store. Lunches to go, to die for.
Eating Out
Mt Rakiahua....... A superb full day trip, which is totally dependant on tide and weather. The views are just stunning and well worth the climb. Requires a reasonable level of fitness.
Are you planning on doing one of the "several day" tracks? If so we can give you free secure storage for extra gear, as long as you're staying with us before and after the hike. And if at all possible we'll drop you at Lee Bay at the start of your hike. No Charge.
