Naturalists will be drawn to Stewart Island, just off the southern tip of the South Island. This sparsely populated and isolated island is one of the country's best-kept secrets. It's primarily a haven for seals and abundant bird species (including albatrosses, kiwis and several kinds of penguins). The island also has salmon farms, wind-sculpted forests, lots of sand dunes and beautiful beaches (more than 160 mi/280 km of coastline). Most of the facilities are at Halfmoon Bay, a town on the northeastern part of the island. Be aware that accommodations tend to be rudimentary. Stewart Island is also a starting point for trips to the bird sanctuary on nearby Ulva Island. To reach Stewart Island, you can take a catamaran from Invercargill or arrive by plane. 30 mi/50 km south of Invercargill.
