Stewart Island And Outer Islands – World Travel

Stewart Island And Outer Islands New Zealand

WorldTravelDB.com — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 09:21:35 +0000

For such a small country, New Zealand’s territorial boundaries stretch a long way and cover an extensive range of climates and terrain. To the north the balmy tropical atolls of Tokelau could not be more different to the barren, windswept and bird-laden Sub-Antarctic Islands to the south. The Kermadecs are still scarred by the active volcano on Raoul Island, while the islets around Stewart Island are studded with stands of primeval native forests. Lying 850km east of NZ’s main islands, the increasingly accessible Chatham Islands are home to the fascinating culture of the Moriori, now enjoying a contemporary renaissance amidst a growth in ecotourism opportunities.

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Travellers who undertake the short jaunt to Stewart Island will be rewarded by a warm welcome from both the local kiwi and the local Kiwis. NZ’s largest outer island is a good place to spy the country’s shy, feathered icon in the wild, and the close-knit community of Stewart Islanders are relaxed hosts. Once you’ve said g’day to the locals, set off on a rewarding tramp in Stewart Island’s Rakiura National Park. With a worthwhile injection of effort, relative newcomers to tramping can easily complete one of NZ’s Great Walks, and be surprised and entertained with an uninterrupted aria from native birds.

Stewart Island Stewart Island And Outer Islands New Zealand

WorldTravelDB.com — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 08:21:35 +0000

Due south of Invercargill, Stewart Island’s Maori name is Rakiura (Glowing Skies) – catch a glimpse of a spectacular blood-red sunset or the aurora australis and you’ll quickly know why. NZ’s third-largest island features unspoilt wilderness and is a haven for a symphony of birdsong. Rakiura National Park protects 85% of the island, making it a mecca for trampers and birdwatchers, and there are countless sandy, isolated coves that are good for swimming if you’re brave/mad enough to venture into the cool water.

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Stewart Island’s small, easy-going population is primarily settled in the fishing village of Oban in Halfmoon Bay and the atmosphere here is remote, rugged and friendly. Regular transport from Invercargill makes getting to Stewart Island straightforward and once there you won’t regret jumping off the mainland’s tourist trail for a relaxing few days.

Chatham Islands Stewart Island And Outer Islands New Zealand

WorldTravelDB.com — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 06:21:35 +0000

Named Rekohu (Misty Sun) by the Moriori, the Chathams are found in the South Pacific Ocean, 850km due east of Christchurch. This remote group of 10 islands lays claim to the first human habitation over the international dateline. Apart from the 50 or so people on Pitt Island, only Chatham Island is significantly populated.

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The islands’ geographical contrasts are striking: rugged coastlines and towering cliffs, volcanic peaks, lagoons and peat bogs, sweeping beaches, isolated farms and dense patches of forest. The main industry besides farming and tourism (particularly ecotourism) is crayfish processing, and there are plants at Waitangi, Kaingaroa, Owenga and Port Hutt. These four towns have strong communities and a sleepy, rustic charm.