Rakiura National Park

Rakiura National Park

Rakiura National Park, also known as Rakuira National Park, is located on Stewart Island in the Southland region. Established in 2002, it covers an area of 1,570 square kilometers, accounting for about 85% of the entire island. It is famous for the Rakiura Track and its diverse birdlife.

Rakiura National Park is New Zealand’s youngest national park, where pristine ecosystems and abundant wildlife transport visitors to a breathtaking natural paradise. The lush coastal rainforests, enchanting freshwater wetlands, expansive sand dunes, and granite mountain ranges form a vivid natural masterpiece that captivates the senses. It is a year-round destination—flowers bloom in spring, camping is ideal in summer, hiking thrives in autumn, and snowscapes charm in winter, each season offering its unique allure. The Rakiura Track is a looped walking trail that takes three days to complete, and it’s well worth a try if you’re up for the adventure.

In Rakiura National Park, you can hear birdsong every day, accompanied by the calls of bellbirds, tuis, tits, grey warblers, and kererū. You’ll also hear the voices of red-crowned parakeets, kākā, and robins. Additionally, the park is home to several rare bird species, including kiwi and yellow-eyed penguins.

Rakiura National Park

Must-visit reason: New Zealand’s youngest national park

Continent: Oceania

Country/Region: New Zealand

Province/State: Southland Region