Discover Oban on Rakiura Stewart Island
Oban, the sole town on Rakiura / Stewart Island, is a quaint, rustic settlement in Halfmoon Bay. It is easy to explore on foot, with immediate access to the natural surroundings. Originally a fishing village, Oban now blends its fishing heritage with tourism. Consider joining a fishing boat excursion to fully appreciate this unique aspect of the town.
Exploring the Surroundings
With a population of only around 400 people, Oban is compact, making it easy to explore on foot. To the north, short road extensions lead to Horseshoe Bay and Lee Bay, where the Rakiura Track and Northwest Circuit begin. Heading west, you'll find the airport, a good place to spot kiwi at night, while the south road takes you to Paterson Inlet / Whaka a Te Wera, with access to Ulva Island.
These roads, along with several short connecting tracks, are surrounded by native forest and abundant birdlife, as close as you can get to what New Zealand was like before people, while still having access to the amenities of modern life.
Local Landmarks and Amenities
In the heart of Oban, the port terminal, visitor centre, and South Sea Hotel are key landmarks, all within a few minutes' walk of each other. Accommodation options are dispersed throughout the town, complemented by several cafés, restaurants, and a grocery store, ensuring you have everything you need for a comfortable stay.
Beaches and Coastal Walks
For a coastal adventure, walk north along the roads hugging the coast to discover three beautiful beaches with golden sands: Bathing, Butterfield, and Bragg Bay. To the south, over Peterson Hill, lies Ringaringa Beach and Ringaringa Point, offering further opportunities for exploration and relaxation by the sea.
Getting to Oban
To reach Oban, you can take a one-hour ferry from Bluff at the bottom of Southland, South Island, to Halfmoon Bay, or opt for a flight from Invercargill to the island's airport, located west of the town.
Other things you can do while on the island include a trip to Mason Bay, combining a beach landing with a hike and a boat taxi ride back and a return walk on the Rakiura Track, from a couple of hours to a day.
