Rakiura Track: Auckland Anniversary Weekend 2026

Rakiura Track: A 2-Day Adventure on Stewart Island - 32 km (Optional: Possibility of having Northwest Circuit 125 km before this event. TBC in January 2025)

Prepare for an unforgettable adventure on the Rakiura Track this Auckland Anniversary Weekend, where nature’s beauty and tranquility await!

Trip Overview:

Embark on a 32 km loop through Rakiura National Park on Stewart Island, immersing yourself in lush native forests, pristine coastlines, and rich history. This 2-day journey offers a chance to encounter unique wildlife, including the elusive kiwi, in their natural habitat.

Itinerary:

Wednesday, January 28, 2026: Travel to Stewart Island

• Morning: Fly from Auckland to Invercargill.
• Afternoon: Take a ferry from Bluff to Oban, Stewart Island's main settlement.
• Evening: Settle into your accommodation in Oban or Half-Moon Bay. South Sea Hotel looks affordable.

Hiking Day 1 : Thursday, January 29, 2026

• Morning: Start walking from Lee Bay, 5 km from ObanTrek 8 km to Port William Hut, passing through coastal landscapes and historical sites like Māori Beach.
• Evening: Stay overnight at Port William Hut.

Hiking Day 2: Friday, January 30, 2026

• Morning: Depart Port William Hut.
• Hike 13 km through native forests to North Arm Hut, enjoying views of Paterson Inlet.
• Complete the final 11 km back to Oban via the Fern Gully track.
• Evening: Stay overnight in Oban or Half-Moon Bay.

Sunday, February 1, 2026: Travel back to Auckland

• Morning: Ferry from Oban to Bluff.
• Afternoon: Fly from Invercargill back to Auckland.

Accommodation:

• Oban/Half-Moon Bay: Various options are available; early booking is recommended.
• On Track: Department of Conservation (DOC) huts at Port William and North Arm. Each hut has 24 bunks; advance booking is essential.

Transportation:

• Flights: Auckland to Invercargill and return.
• Ferry: Bluff to Oban and return.
• Local Transfers: Shuttle services are available from Oban to trailheads if needed.

Cost Estimates:

• Flights: Approximately $300–$400 per person (round trip).
• Ferry: Around $85 per person (one way).
• Accommodation:
• Oban/Half-Moon Bay: Approximately $100–$150 per night per person.
• DOC Huts: $44 per night per person. This might change by the time we book.
• Shuttle Services: Approximately $20–$30 per person (one way).

What to Bring:

• Essentials:
• Backpack
• Sleeping bag
• Sturdy hiking boots
• Waterproof jacket
• Food for 3 days
• Water bottle (water from streams should be treated)
• Toilet paper
• Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
• Headlamp and batteries
• Optional:
• Camping stove and gas
• Cooking utensils
• Hiking poles
• Insect repellent

Important Notes:

• Bookings: Ensure all accommodations and transportation are booked well in advance.
• Fitness Level: Participants should have a moderate fitness level; the track is considered intermediate.
• Wildlife: Respect local wildlife; maintain a safe distance and do not feed animals.
• Leave No Trace: Carry out all rubbish and minimize your environmental impact.
• Navigation and Safety: Your safety is your responsibility. I will carry a personal locator beacon (PLB) as well as a GPS navigator.

Contribution:

A contribution will be requested to cover group expenses, including equipment and Meetup fees. The amount will depend on the number of attendees and will be communicated later.

Registration:

Interested participants will be placed on a waiting list. Confirmation will be based on fitness level and readiness for the hike. Priority will be given to those I know well, those who have attended multi-day events with the group, and those who have attended training sessions.