Come and stay with us in our peaceful bed and breakfast accommodation at Stewart Island Lodge.
Private and secluded, Stewart Island Lodge is a wonderful place to relax in great comfort while providing a base for your Island exploration. It’s just five minutes’ walk from the village centre where there are restaurants and a small pub.
The lodge has commanding views of Halfmoon Bay and Foveaux Strait. Its grounds are home to many native birds including kaka (native parrots) and provide a contemplative place to relax. The terrace offers sweeping views of the gardens and ocean beyond providing an idyllic place to kick back and watch the birds.
Our six guestrooms are sumptuous, enjoy stunning outlooks and open directly onto an expansive balcony.
Rakiura is the Maori name for Stewart Island. It translates as the Land of the Glowing Skies.
Since the epic swim of John van Leeuwen in 1963 only four others have officially swum Foveaux Strait.
The record holder is Southlander Todd Utteridge, who completed the swim in 8 hours 40 minutes in 1989.
Located at the southern tip of New Zealand, Stewart Island is readily accessible by ferry from Bluff (1 hour) and small plane from Invercargill (20 minutes). Both options have several departures daily.
Getting to Bluff is easy as coach transfers from Invercargill connect with the Stewart Island Ferry all year (pick-ups from Invercargill Airport, Tuatara Backpackers Lodge, Victoria Railway Hotel and i-SITE Visitor Centre).
Coach connections are also availabe from Queenstown and Te Anau, November to April (pick-ups from Real Journeys Visitor Centres).
On arrival at Stewart Island, please check in at the Oban Visitor Centre (located immediately adjacent to the ferry terminal). We will then transfer you to the Lodge.
If you arrive by air, please let us know so that we can pick you up from the airport on Stewart Island.
Check in 2pm; check out 10am (irrespective of ferry departure) – Note some limited luggage storage is available.
A full continental breakfast is served from 7am until 9am in main dining room (can be served earlier/later by prior arrangement).
At other times of the year (June & July), Stewart Island Lodge is available for group bookings for up to 12 people (6 bedrooms, lounge, kitchen and BBQ) may be available, please enquire.
Book3 October 2018
Having booked for 1 night thinking a fly in am and fly out next day pm was right, but when we got here we just started to relax. From the friendly welcome Lisa gave and remained in her hospitality throughout. Within about 4 hours we knew we wanted to change our plans and stay on. We took many walks and did Real Journeys Ulva Island Explorer and Wild Kiwi Encounter, both had the amazing Johnnie as a guide. This boy knows his stuff. Would definitely come back and last night after dinner watching the sun go down over a glass of wine at the balcony dinner table just made it extra special.
16 September 2018
We had a wonderful week in the lodge. It was comfortable, well appointed, and very conveniently located (if you don’t mind a bit of a hill climb at the end of the day). Our special thanks to Lisa, our host. She was incredibly knowledgeable and helpful, and she went out of her way make our stay so memorable. If you are looking for somewhere to chill out, go walking, and enjoy nature, this is the place.
18 March 2018
Enjoyed every minute of this wonderful paradise, accommodations and staff. Lisa, one of the staff members was very accommodating to arrange to have a guide to lead me on the walk of nearby Ulva Island and actually came in contact with a Kiwi Bird. One of the greatest highlights of my 6 week stay in NZ. Lots of space on the balconies to enjoy the beautiful view of the harbour. Highly recommend this B&B!!
1 February 2018
Although we were here in another era of the Stewart Island Lodge, we were very happy to re-enjoy the peace and quiet of this lodge. Lisa, the on-site manager is an invaluable wealth of knowledge along with her superior interpersonal skills. Through her sage advice we discovered the fresh water river cruise that gave us more insight on the fabulous nature on Stewart Island. You will find this lodge well appointed with a great view of Half Moon Bay from the veranda, be it morning, day or night!
31 January 2018
Top accommodation in a top location. Our welcome hostess was Wendy, and we also met Lisa, the main hostess. From the pick up service from the ferry, the check-in procedure, the breakfast, the view, the comfort, the convenient location and the laundry facilities, it was all superb. A maximum of six rooms are on offer, so at no time do you feel overwhelmed by lots of strangers around you. The breakfast is of good quality and plentiful, which included plunger coffee. The hostesses are chatty, but not intrusive, and very helpful.
9 December 2017
We were on Stewart Island for two nights in November. Fortunately we were able to stay at the Stewart Island Lodge when they had a cancellation. We were picked up at the ferry dock (after a very rough crossing from Bluff), given a 10 minute driving tour of the town, and driven up the hill (yes, it is steep but we walked it several times and we are in our mid 70s so it's not that tough) to the Lodge. There we were greeted by Lisa who was fun, charming, and very efficient. Our room was large and had a wonderful view. The continental breakfasts were great and the coffee was the best I had anywhere in NZ. Lisa helped us several times with finding things, making recommendations, and making a reservation for us at the Churchhill Restaurant (see separate review). The Lodge is a bit pricey but well worth it.
Stayed November 2017
8 December 2017
Our two nights at Stewart Island Lodge were a highlight of our South Island trip -- and that is saying something because the South Island is full of incredible experiences. Wendy and Lisa were our hosts during our stay and they were both friendly, hospitable and very knowledgeable about the island. At the end of a day walking around Ulva Island or exploring Stewart Island, there is no more comfortable spot than the tables on the deck above the bird- and flower-filled garden of the lodge looking out over the little harbor. A truly magical spot.
7 November 2017
We stayed at Stewart Island Lodge for three nights and just loved it there. The room and other facilities were top notch and the view of Half Moon Bay from our room was magnificent. We were provided with an excellent continental breakfast each morning. The icing on the cake for us was the manager, Lisa. She was so pleasant to deal with and couldn't do enough for us, giving us pointers on what to see, directions and even making bookings and finding details out on our behalf. She really enhanced our whole experience on Stewart Island.
A special unexpected bonus was having five kaka come to visit when we were on the deck.
Stayed October 2017
16 October 2017
We stayed at the Stewart Island Lodge for two nights and absolutely loved it! The rooms were spacious with a very comfortable bed, a full sized wet room, dressing room, free Wi-Fi and pretty much all the luxury you need but the best bit was definitely the view over Half Moon Bay and the Kakas who visited the balcony, just unbeatable! Lisa and her team were lovely hosts and made us feel very welcome and the continental breakfast was delicious. I can only recommend this place and would definitely stay there again if I would ever return to Stewart Island!
Stayed October 2017
23 May 2017
Loved the lodge. A beautiful place to stay. Friendly warm staff. Lovely rooms. Great value. Beautiful views over the bay. Close to the local town. Room and bed so comfortable and warm. Thanks Lisa you are really a great host.
Stayed May 2017
16 March 2017
To sit on the deck & hear the birds in song, flying around... to see the magnificent views from every advantage point .... to have beautifully appointed rooms...breakfast served by lovely staff.. loved it.
Stayed March 2017
3 February 2017
We stayed at the Stewart Island Lodge for 2 nights (1st - 3rd February 2017). From being met at the ferry terminal on the island to leaving we had the perfect time. We were made to feel very welcome. Our room was excellent with the most amazing view of Halfmoon Bay. The lodge is extremely comfortable with a homely feel, but also one of sheer luxury. Breakfast was continental but very generous in what was offered with a range of fruit, cereals, yoghurt, fruit juices, cheeses, bagels & bread.
Overall we felt special & our time on the island was special.
Stayed February 2017
28 January 2017
Stewart Island Lodge is located on a steep hill facing Half Moon Bay where the catamarans from Bluff on the mainland moor. It is spacious with 6 nice rooms to cater for in total 12 people, and good shared facilities for cooking, breakfast and relaxation. All rooms open to a large balcony with seats and parasols and magnificent views over the bay. The brush that covers the steep hills are home to many different species of birds, most notably the NZ pigeon, the tui and the bellbird. A continental breakfast is served every morning and transport to and from the harbour is arranged. There are some excellent restaurants on the island, but the biggest attraction is of course a (guided) tour to nearby Ulva Island, a nature reserve that does not have many equals.
18 December 2016
We spent 3 nights here, and loved it. The rooms are super comfortable and well appointed, I particularly liked the separate luggage room which made it easy to keep the room tidy, and the deep bath after a days walking.
There is a fabulous view down over Oban - the down side is this means a steep hill to walk up and down!
The hostesses were friendly and helpful with plenty of advice on what to do, breakfast was great, with a welcome range of GF options, and there's a nice communal living room. We appreciated being allowed to stay in the lounge after checking out while waiting for our flight.
This place isn't cheap but it was totally worth it.
Stayed December 2016
10 November 2016
If it's good enough for HRH Prince Harry then it's good enough for us. Bed comfy and Lisa the hostess was both welcoming and accommodating. Breakfast buffet included in price, this offered an impressive selection and guests used the time to share experiences on Stewart Island. Wonderful. Recommend for couples not so much for small children.
22 October 2016
19 September 2016
We recently stayed 1 night at the Stewart Lodge. This is the place to stay on Stewart Island. The views are amazing and the bed is the best bed I ever slept in! Loved our stay. Every morning and evening we got greeted by the Kaka, one of the native birds on our balcony. It is a bit of a steep walk to the lodge but town centre is just a few minutes walk. In the morning breakfast is provided and the hosts provide a lot of information about activities and walks. We loved our stay and we definitely be back!
Stayed September 2016
21 May 2016
The two nights spent here were fabulous. Lots of little things are provided, and we cooked a meal with lamb chops and stir fry veges purchased from the little Four Square shop at Stewart Island one night, and a great hamburger at the pub the other.
Staff are knowledgeable and friendly and it was a great way to meet other travellers too. Rooms are excellent, and the view amazing - and good walking all round, if sometime somewhat steep.
16 March 2016
This lodge is positioned on a hill over looking Oban and the bay. Every room has the most stunning view. The rooms are very comfortable and the lodge is surrounded by a gorgeous garden that attracts the local birds. The highlight of this lodge is Lisa who manages the premises and acts as a host for the guests. She will organise tours, sightseeing, walks, dinners or anything your heart desires. She is charming, efficient, and the lodge's greatest asset.
13 February 2016
Staying here is like being a guest in a friend's house. The rooms are large & very comfortable, and the view from the verandah outside is amazing. The Kakas (New Zealand parrots) come to sit on the railing there. Lisa, the hostess of the lodge, is available to answer any questions about Stewart Island, and also to recommend activities. We took a couple of the walks she recommended, and also the kiwi trip - we saw a wild kiwi! This is a place we will definitely come back to.
Stayed January 2016
8 January 2016
What a beautiful place to stay. Very enjoyable.
Stayed January 2016
Debbie & Alan, California, USA via customer feedback
13 November 2015
Loved celebrating our honeymoon here. Never wanted to leave.
Stayed November 2015
Chad & Lindsay, Ohio, USA via customer feedback
13 October 2015
Stewart island lodge is small place- can hold 10-12 people. Nice, comfy, tidy. Amenities are good considering is on an offshore island. The views are really good, the staff (Chris - manager) are helpful, courteous and friendly. Breakfast is essentially some fruit, cereal, bread/bagels/jam tea and coffee. Major attraction is that Stewart is is one of the few places with preserved (native) flora and fauna in NZ.
Stayed October 2015
14 May 2015
Amazing views and comfy beds!
Stayed May 2015
Susan, Kapiti Coast, New Zealand via customer feedback
11 April 2015
We stayed 2 nights. We were picked up and brought to the hotel upon landing.
Our room was lovely. Breathtaking views. Lisa gave us a tour of the hotel (very clean) and showed us maps of the area with suggestions. She booked tours for us and offered dinner reservations. She was very pleasant and helpful. We had an early morning tour and Lisa had breakfast ready for us. Laundry facility on site was handy. Can't wait to come again.
Stayed April 2015
28 April 2015
Great staff, fantastic place. Awesome wildlife. We'll be back.
Stayed April 2015
Allan, Canterbury, New Zealand via customer feedback
16 March 2015
Have just returned from a 5 night stay at Stewart Island Lodge. Lisa did an amazing job of making us feel so welcome and backed that up with great advice on what to see and do while we were on the island. She really took an interest in our activities and how to make the most of our 5 days. She booked tours and restaurants for us - nothing was too much trouble. Thanks Lisa.
Stayed March 2015
24 January 2015
From the pick up at the ferry to the breakfast and send off, the staff were very warm and helpful. They have laundry facilities, a drying room, and a nice, large tub after a day of walking. The birdsong and views of Oban town are spectacular.
Stayed January 2015
13 January 2015
Reviewed 13 January 2015 We had one night at the lodge after a night out tramping so were pleased to get to our room and relax, the bed was sooo comfortable and huge. Staff were very friendly and let us store gear there the night before arrival and left breakfast out later for us. Huge selection at breakfast. Close to town although reasonably steep hill to climb up. Would recommend and stay again.
We had one night at the lodge after a night out tramping so were pleased to get to our room and relax, the bed was sooo comfortable and huge. Staff were very friendly and let us store gear there the night before arrival and left breakfast out later for us. Huge selection at breakfast. Close to town although reasonably steep hill to climb up. Would recommend and stay again.
Stayed December 2014
18 November 2014
The Stewart Island Lodge is extremely comfortable with stunning views over Oban. The rooms are very well equipped and have lovely beds. Breakfast is continental with fruis, cereal, yogurts and a variety of nice breads andBagels. Eating breakfast and taking in the views is close to perfect. The manager is really helpful and gas great local knowledge. Ask her advice and she will give you good info. The gardens are being restored to their former glory and with a little more help will be stunning. The gardens are a major drawer of birds especially parrots.
Stayed November 2014
27 October 2014
We stayed for 2 nights and wished for more. A beautiful place, with everything we could have wanted. The rooms were warm, large and luxurious, the dressing room an added bonus, as were the chocolates each day. A huge bathroom and a balcony with180 degree views across Oban and visits by friendly Kaka each morning and evening.
To add to that our hostess Lisa was a real gem, professional, welcoming and knowledgable and could not be more helpful answering our many questions about this incredible island.
Stayed October 2014
25 May 2014
A great place to stay. Lisa was very helpful and knowledgeable. Loved the views over the harbour and visits from almost tame Kaka. Good breakfast each day. Comfortable super king size bed. Easy walking distance of village.
Stayed May 2014
8 May 2014
A great break away. Stewart Island Lodge provides wonderful quality accommodation and the views are just amazing. The lodge is a short walk from everywhere (although walking back up the hill will test your muscles!). Super comfy bed and a really enjoyable start to each day sharing the breakfast table with other guests. Staff were helpful and friendly. We highly recommend : )
Stayed April 2014
9 April 2014
In a country full of wonderful sights and experiences, a visit to Stewart Island is a real treat and the Stewart Island Lodge is one of the reasons. My husband and I stayed for 3 nights - we were thrilled with the facilities .....
Stayed April 2014
8 March 2014
The lodge is clean, comfortable and welcoming. The views and the surroundings are unbeatable.....
Stayed March 2014
2 February 2014
The lodge is brilliant with views that give you the wow feeling, you stand on the balcony / decking and look out over the harbour and it gives you the feeling of bliss, it's just great.
Stayed February 2014
In case you haven't found the information you were looking for, we've put together some of the most common questions our customers ask about our trips. If you need more specific answers, please contact us directly.
No, we only carry passengers and light freight on the ferry services between Bluff and Stewart Island. Rental cars, motor scooters and mountain bikes are available for hire from our Oban Visitor Centre.
There is an ATM/money machine in Bluff's "4 Square" shop however it is only possible to withdraw cash with a NZ bank card. You can purchase your ferry tickets at the Bluff Visitor Terminal using both EFTPOS and Credit Cards. The nearest bank is located at Invercargill.
Yes, most places on Stewart Island have EFTPOS and credit card facilities. There is an ATM/money machine at the "4 Square" shop on Stewart Island however it is only possible to withdraw cash with a NZ bank card. There are no banks on the island itself and the nearest bank is located at Invercargill.
Yes, there is a general grocery store, cafés and restaurants and a Kai cart (take-aways summer only).
There are a huge range of activities available on Stewart Island, from kayaking, fishing trips, golf, walking tracks and more. To find out more information and to make bookings, we operate the Oban Visitor Centre. The Department of Conservation (DoC) also operates a Visitor Information Centre and can provide more information on walking tracks and activities.
All prices and transactions on the Real Journeys website are in New Zealand dollars (NZD). This is specified on the Terms & Conditions page.
Our staff are trained to deal with incidents and in case of an emergency you should listen to their instructions.
We have a portable defibrillator on board each of our overnight cruise vessels (Milford Mariner, Milford Wanderer and Fiordland Navigator).
In addition to this we also have portable defibrillators at the following locations:
• Milford Sound Visitor Terminal
• Real Journeys Visitor Centre, Manapouri
• Cavern House (Te Anau Glowworm Caves)
• Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant, Walter Peak
• TSS Earnslaw Vintage Steamship
• Stewart Island Ferry (Bluff - Oban - Bluff).
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