Setting Sail into the Twilight

As the sun began its descent over the horizon, I found myself aboard a catamaran, gliding across the serene waters of Paterson Inlet. The anticipation was palpable among my fellow travelers, each of us eager to embark on the Stewart Island Kiwi Encounter—a guided night walk and wildlife spotting adventure that promised an intimate glimpse into the nocturnal world of Stewart Island’s unique fauna.

Our guides, Karen and Natasha, were the epitome of professionalism and passion. Their knowledge of the local ecosystem was impressive, and they shared fascinating insights about the birdlife and environment of the region. As we cruised past Ulva Island, a predator-free sanctuary, we were treated to sightings of mollymawks, titi, the rare hoiho, Northern royal albatross, seals, sea lions, shags, and little blue penguins. Each sighting was a reminder of the rich biodiversity that Stewart Island harbors, and the importance of preserving these natural habitats.

The Silent Trek to Ocean Beach

Upon reaching The Neck, we disembarked and prepared for our silent trek through the coastal forest. The path was well-formed, and as we ventured deeper into the woods, the sounds of the night enveloped us. The stars above provided a celestial canopy, guiding us towards Ocean Beach where the elusive Southern brown kiwi, or Rakiura Tokoeka, often forages.

Our guides expertly managed our expectations, reminding us of the kiwi’s elusive nature. As we walked, they shared stories of past encounters and the ongoing conservation efforts to protect these remarkable birds. Despite the initial absence of kiwi sightings, the experience was far from disappointing. The forest was alive with the symphony of nocturnal creatures, and the thrill of the search kept our spirits high.

A Night to Remember

Just as we began to accept the possibility of not seeing a kiwi, fortune smiled upon us. There, on the beach, a kiwi emerged, its silhouette illuminated by the moonlight. We watched in awe as it fed among the grasses and seaweed, a rare and precious sight. As if to reward our patience, another kiwi crossed our path on the return journey, offering us a second, breathtaking encounter.

Back on the boat, the camaraderie among the group was palpable. We celebrated our successful sightings with hot chocolate, tea, and bikkies, the perfect end to an unforgettable night. The late hour of our return, around 1 am, did nothing to dampen the experience. Instead, it added to the sense of adventure and the feeling of having been part of something truly special.

This experience was a testament to the power of sustainable tourism and the importance of supporting conservation efforts. Stewart Island’s natural beauty is a treasure that must be preserved for future generations, and I left with a renewed commitment to advocating for eco-friendly travel options. If you ever find yourself in Southland, I cannot recommend the Stewart Island Kiwi Encounter enough. It is an experience that will stay with you long after the night has ended.