Discover the Hiking Trails of Oban and Rakiura Stewart Island
Located on Rakiura Stewart Island, Oban offers a variety of hiking opportunities that showcase the island's stunning natural beauty. From short beach walks to the challenging North West Circuit, which takes seven to ten days, the island caters to all levels of hiking enthusiasts. The Rakiura Track, one of New Zealand's Great Walks, offers a rewarding three-day trek through native forests and along picturesque coastlines.
Short Walks and Connecting Tracks
Oban is surrounded by several short tracks that provide easy access to the island's natural attractions. These include the Golden Mound at the start of the Rakiura Track, Fern Gully and Ryans Creek near the airport, and the Golden Bay and Petersen Hill tracks to the south. The Ackers Point Track leads to Fisherman Point, offering scenic views along the way. For those interested in a slightly longer walk, the Horseshoe Point Track connects Bragg Bay to Horseshoe Bay, following the coastal route.
Exploring the Rakiura Track
For a day walk, consider the first section of the Rakiura Track Great Walk, beginning at Lee Bay. This section offers a glimpse of the island's diverse landscapes, including beautiful coastlines, lush native forests, and abundant birdlife. Keep an eye out for seals basking on the rocks.
Getting Around Oban
Accessing these tracks is straightforward, with most starting points reachable by a short walk along Oban's safe roads. For added convenience, visitors can rent a bike or a small car to explore the area.
How to Get There
To reach the start of the Rakiura Track, head to Lee Bay, which is easily accessible from Oban. The town itself is the main settlement on Rakiura Stewart Island and serves as a hub for exploring the island's numerous trails. Once in Oban, you can explore other nearby attractions, such as the scenic Horseshoe Bay and the historic Ackers Point Lighthouse.
