Ulva Island Walk (Included – 1.5 hours)
4
Details
Enchanting Ulva Island, just a stone’s throw from Stewart Island, is the southern-most bird sanctuary in the world. It is a paradise for bird watchers and lovers of the natural New Zealand environment.
Home to a variety of native birds which are rare or endangered in other parts of New Zealand, Ulva Island is a 266 hectare/500 acre bird sanctuary which has been pest free since 1997. Ulva Island has attracted international attention for species recovery and conservation. The island is managed by the Department of Conservation as an ‘open sanctuary’ where there are no invasive species and native birds can be seen at close quarters.
The ship’s zodiacs will take you to the island where your internationally-renowned local island guides will meet you as you step ashore. Commence your guided walk, which takes you over much of the island. Listen as the guide offers highlights of the rich bird and plant life as well as early Maori and European history.
Keep your ears and eyes open for some of New Zealand’s native birds, such as the noisy kaka (forest parrot) and the large native kereru (wood pigeon) whose wings make a distinctive sound almost like a buzz when they are in flight.
Notes: An easy walk at a gentle pace on well-maintained gravel tracks. Highest point on Ulva Island is 100 m above sea level. The full track system on Ulva Island is 4 km, however this tour only includes a relaxing walk for approx. 1.5 hours. There is a short walk on the soft sand beach and approx. 15 steps involved. Ulva Island is pest-free and visitors are encouraged to do a thorough biodiversity check of their gear to ensure they are not carrying unwanted stowaways and seeds/weeds to Ulva Island.
Activity Info
Schedule
Start Time
Mar 12
Location
Ulva Island, Stewart Island / Rakiura, New Zealand