New Zealand South Island: 6-Day Stewart Island & Fiordland

Exploring the 6-Day South Island Adventure: Stewart Island & Fiordland

Travelers looking to experience a mix of stunning landscapes, wildlife, and untouched wilderness will find this 6-day tour from Queenstown to be an impressive option. Covering some of New Zealand’s most iconic sights—the breathtaking Milford Sound, the wild shores of the Catlins, and the remote beauty of Stewart Island—it’s a balanced journey that blends boat cruises, scenic drives, and nature walks.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to cruise through Milford Sound and see its waterfalls and forested peaks is truly spectacular. Second, exploring Stewart Island’s unspoiled coastlines and spotting elusive native wildlife is an experience few get to enjoy. Third, the opportunity to visit the rugged and lesser-trodden parts of the South Island offers an authentic feel. One potential consideration is the ferry ride to Stewart Island, which can be rough and may not suit those prone to seasickness.

This journey is perfect for travelers who love wildlife, scenic landscapes, and a touch of adventure—all packed into a manageable 6 days. If you’re after a trip that combines comfort, authenticity, and a good dose of New Zealand’s wild beauty, this tour could be just right.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning Milford Sound cruise: Marvel at waterfalls and lush peaks.
• Wildlife spotting: See seabirds, fur seals, and possibly kiwi on Stewart Island.
• Local culture and scenery: Experience rugged coasts, rainforests, and remote beaches.
• Expert-guided experience: Small group size (limited to 12) ensures personalized attention.
• Value for money: Combines multiple iconic sights with comfortable accommodations.
• Consider the ferry ride: Rough seas could be challenging for some travelers.

A Deep Dive into the 6-Day South Island Tour

Day 1: From Queenstown to Te Anau

Starting at the Heartland Hotel Queenstown, you’ll meet your guide and group in the late morning. This initial meet-and-greet sets the tone for a relaxed, small-group adventure, with a maximum of 12 participants. After the formalities—insurance and emergency contacts—you’ll set off on a scenic 3.5-hour drive to Te Anau, a charming lakeside town. The drive itself is a highlight, with vistas of Lake Wakatipu framed by the dramatic peaks of The Remarkables.

Te Anau is the gateway to Fiordland National Park, and the evening offers optional activities like visiting glow worms (costing around NZD $135). While no meals are included today, the town’s cozy eateries make for a perfect introduction to local flavors. We liked the sense of anticipation building for the adventures ahead.

Day 2: Milford Sound cruise & Lake walks

This is arguably the tour’s star attraction. The day begins early, with a journey to Milford Sound—an area often called the eighth wonder of the world. The boat cruise is a highlight, offering close-up views of waterfalls tumbling down cliffs, lush rainforests, and towering peaks. Travelers can expect to see bottlenose dolphins and fur seals, providing plenty of wildlife encounters.

Many reviewers mention that the boat trip offers a different perspective of the sounds—”a truly memorable experience,” as one put it. After the cruise, you’ll do a leader-led climb to Milford Lookout, which is worth the slight effort for panoramic views. The day continues with a walk around Mirror Lakes, where still waters reflect the surrounding mountains, and a stop at Lake Gunn.

In the evening, Te Anau’s local restaurants serve up hearty New Zealand fare—think venison, fresh seafood, and local wines—perfect for recharging after a long day. Expect this day to be packed but well worth it for the scenery and wildlife.

More Great Tours Nearby

Day 3: Discovering The Catlins

Heading south, your journey takes you to the rugged coast of the Catlins—a region known for its wild beauty. The drive itself feels like a step back in time, with scenic cliffs and lush forests lining the road. Nugget Point lighthouse provides iconic photo opportunities perched on rocky outcrops, while McLean Falls offers a peaceful hike through dense native bush.

The area is revered for its hidden waterfalls and untouched wilderness. Many reviews note the wild coastline and the sense of being far from anywhere. Overnight accommodation is a lodge with shared facilities—simple but cozy—and a great base for exploring the next day.

Day 4: Cross to Stewart Island

One of the trip’s most exciting aspects is crossing the Foveaux Strait to Stewart Island. The ferry ride, about an hour long, can be rough, and some travelers mention the limited mobile reception on the island—so prepare accordingly. Stewart Island (Rakiura) is nearly all national park, offering pristine beaches, dense forests, and a peaceful atmosphere.

This island is a haven for birdwatchers and hikers alike. It’s also known as the place to spot the rare, flightless Stewart Island kiwi and the endangered brown kiwi—if you’re lucky or join a guided nocturnal kiwi tour. Accommodations here are basic, with shared facilities, but the authentic wilderness experience more than compensates.

Day 5: Exploring Stewart Island

The full free day on Stewart Island is a highlight for many. You can choose to take a bay cruise to see penguins and seabirds—an experience many reviewers describe as “magical”—or explore coastal tracks that pass early Maori sites and stunning beaches. The relaxed pace allows you to soak in the untouched scenery, find quiet beaches, and learn about the local flora and fauna.

Some travelers mention that joining a kiwi spotting tour is particularly rewarding, especially in the quiet of the evening. You might find that the limited development on the island offers a surprisingly immersive nature experience, far from the tourist crowds.

Day 6: Return to Queenstown

Ferrying back to the mainland, you’ll head north to Queenstown, arriving around 2 pm. The end of the trip provides a great opportunity to extend your stay—whether for adrenaline-packed activities, vineyard visits, or exploring nearby towns. The journey back often feels like a quiet reflection on the trip’s incredible scenery and wildlife encounters.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Scenic highlights like Milford Sound and Nugget Point are truly breathtaking, with reviewers emphasizing the ‘wow factor’ of these iconic sites. The boat cruise in Milford Sound is described as “probably the most impressive part of the trip” with abundant wildlife and waterfalls. The wild, rugged coastlines in the Catlins offer a sense of untouched wilderness, perfect for nature lovers.

Wildlife experiences are another major draw. Many reviewers appreciated the chance to see seabirds, fur seals, and in some cases, the elusive kiwi—particularly on Stewart Island, where the unspoiled environment fosters genuine sightings.

Authentic, small-group atmosphere helps travelers feel connected and well cared for. Many mention their guides—whose names often come up in reviews—being knowledgeable, personable, and committed to making the experience memorable.

The tour offers great value by combining multiple highlights into a manageable itinerary that balances travel, activities, and free time. The accommodations are straightforward but comfortable, fitting the rustic and natural theme of the trip.

However, the ferry ride to Stewart Island might be a concern for those prone to seasickness, and the patchy mobile reception on the island means you should be prepared for limited connectivity.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This trip is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, adventure travelers, and nature lovers who want a real taste of New Zealand’s less-trodden landscapes. It’s suited for those comfortable with basic accommodations and open to a mix of boat trips, hikes, and scenic drives. If you’re seeking a compact, authentic experience that showcases the South Island’s best scenery and wildlife, this tour offers excellent value.

It’s less ideal for travelers who prefer luxury accommodations, require guaranteed kiwi sightings, or are sensitive to rough seas. Those with limited mobility might find some activities challenging, but overall, the focus on natural exploration makes it a worthwhile journey for most adventurous spirits.

The Sum Up

This 6-day tour of New Zealand’s South Island beautifully balances iconic sights with off-the-beaten-path adventures. From the dramatic cliffs and waterfalls of Milford Sound to the tranquil, wildlife-rich wilderness of Stewart Island, each day offers something special. The small group size and guided approach mean you’ll gain local insights while enjoying a relaxed pace.

The tour’s focus on wildlife, scenery, and genuine wilderness delivers a deeply authentic experience. The value for money is evident in the variety of activities and sights packed into such a short trip, making it a smart choice for travelers wanting an impactful, memorable journey.

While the ferry ride and basic accommodations might not suit everyone, for those craving an honest taste of New Zealand’s natural beauty, this experience checks most boxes.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for travelers prone to seasickness?
The ferry crossing to Stewart Island can be rough, so if seasickness is a concern, you might want to consider your tolerance or prepare accordingly.

Are meals included?
Most days include breakfast, while some evenings offer the chance to explore local restaurants. No meals are included on Day 1 but expect diverse options in Te Anau and Stewart Island.

What kind of accommodations are provided?
You’ll stay in simple, shared facilities lodges and motels, which are comfortable but basic—fitting the rugged, natural theme of the trip.

How physically demanding is the tour?
The activities involve walking and some hikes, like the climb to Milford Lookout and walks in the Catlins. While manageable for most, those with mobility issues should review specific activity details.

Can I see kiwi on this trip?
Seeing kiwi depends on luck and the time of day. The tour offers opportunities like kiwi spotting tours on Stewart Island, which many reviewers found rewarding.

What is the group size?
Limited to 12 participants, ensuring a personal experience and plenty of opportunity for interaction with your guide.

This tour offers a well-rounded, authentic glimpse into New Zealand’s wild south, making it an excellent choice for travelers eager to experience both iconic sights and hidden treasures.

You can check availability for your dates here: