free 1a. unimpeded, not confined or fixed, spontaneous
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Stewart Island - Our Rakiura Ramble

Stewart Island, known as Rakiura, is one of New Zealand's best kept secrets. Of the main 3 islands in New Zealand, it is the smallest, southernmost and by far the most natural island. 90% of the island is national park making Stewart Island New Zealand's 4th largest national park and definitely the most rugged, remote and pristine.

'Rakiura' is the Maori name for this unspoilt island, meaning 'The Isle of Glowing Skies' - reflecting not only her romantic lingering sunsets but also to the night time displays of the Aurora Australis - 'The Southern Lights'.

Stewart Island is a nature lover's paradise and an outdoor adventurer's dream. Home to numerous rare and wonderful species of bird and plant life including the famous iconic Stewart Island kiwi or Tokoeka. It is a place to explore, adventure, relax, enjoy and just be!

Come join us for a 'Rakiura Ramble' - 5 days of fun & adventure - your own personal experience of one of New Zealand's best-kept secrets. Be a part of it!

Stewart Island Adventure
Course Duration	5 days, 4 nights
Dates/Cost	Talk to us about your requirements and numbers
Includes:	Personal coach transport from Dunedin to Invercargill return Flights from Invercargill to Stewart Island return with South East Air All boat & water taxi transfers Qualified & experience outdoor instructor & bush guide All meals - gourmet food & drinks 2 nights bush huts & 2 nights kiwi beach house accommodation Guided trip to Ulva Island & water taxi transport Free bonus pack liner to keep your clothes dry & organised

Sample Itinerary

Day 1

We meet outside the International Department in Dunedin at 10.00 am. The Free Spirit Guided Tour of Stewart Island leaves in a private 12-seater coach to Invercargill to catch the scenic afternoon flight to 'Rakiura', Stewart Island. A packed picnic lunch is included to eat en route. The 20 min South East Air flight captures stunning views of Codfish Island (Whenua Hou), the home of the famous Kakapo Rescue Project, crosses the Foveaux Strait - one of the world's roughest stretches of water on a bad day and finishes with an exciting landing on the sands of Masons Bay. Leave only footprints as you tramp along the beach to a classic bush hut for the night. Enjoy a gourmet tramping dinner then search for the iconic Kiwi with your experienced guide.

Day 2

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast serenaded by bird chorus, spent the morning exploring the native bush and beach of this Western side of the island before crossing the infamous chocolate swamp where unique bird life and flora abound. Tramp, trek or hike, whichever you prefer inland through stunning native bush and wildlife for 3-4 hours to Freshwater Creek Hut. Enjoy another evening of gourmet food, excellent company and the idyllic atmosphere and comfort of an outback hut.

Day 3

A short trek to our transport, then board a water taxi to Paterson's Inlet and the scenic town of Oban. Spend the afternoon walking lush bush tracks & isolated beaches to find a quiet spot of your own or share to the view with friends. Or if you want, take some time out to read or write and relax while you settle into the classic Kiwi beach crib for a night of good food, wine & socialising.

Day 4

All aboard for Ulva Island wildlife sanctuary for first hand encounters with native parrots & the inquisitive Weka. This sanctuary hosts the larger Kaka parrot & smaller Kakariki parakeet along with Weka, Bellbird, Tui, Kereru & Saddleback. The sea views & bush walks are outstanding on Ulva sanctuary so take your time to explore, enjoy a picnic lunch & relax. End the day with a coffee at the Church Café overlooking the ocean before another gourmet feast & social evening in your beachfront accommodation.

Day 5

Enjoy an early morning bush walk to a classic swing bridge, a picnic lunch on the beach at Port William before returning to spend the afternoon in Oban soaking up the life of the harbour, enjoying a coffee or just wandering the shops. The 5.30 pm flight back to Invercargill will provide an opportunity for a last glimpse of Rakiura before cruising back to Dunedin (with fish 'n chips en route) arriving approximately 10.00 pm.

Your Guide

Chris Charteris-Wright has a degree in Physical Education and secondary school teaching, specialising in Outdoor Education. He has outdoor instructed extensively in both New Zealand and overseas for over 20 years. Chris continues to inspire, motivate, instruct and guide people of all ages and nationalities with Free Spirit Adventures to many of New Zealand's most stunning and unspoilt places - best known as New Zealand's best kept secrets.

NB: Limited spaces - BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL

Have any questions? Ask us on kim@freespiritnz.com or call Kim or Chris on 478 0061 or 021 467 203 now!