Stewart Island, New Zealand

Wednesday, 16 January 2008

The waters between the mainland and Stewart Island, an hour’s trip from the mainland, are blessedly calm. Having had the crossing from hell a few years back between Doolin and Inis Oirr it was nice to spend the journey not nervously eyeing the sick bags provided in the seat in front of you.

The island is New Zealand’s third largest and is mostly national park, with a large and varied bird population. Halfmoon Bay is where the ferry docks and has a small village but otherwise the island is uninhabited. Understandably, it's a popular destination for birdwatchers and trekkers. We enjoy rambling around, taking in a few of the more leisurely walks and enjoying the peace of the place. In the afternoon we make a pit-stop at the Church Hill Café, perched over Halfmoon Bay. It’s a good spot to enjoy the sunshine. In the evening, we have a tasty dinner at the South Sea Hotel. The pub next door is like a scene from Craggy Island - a handful of dishevelled islanders hold up the bar while taking the measure of the gringo tourists.

If you want to see photos click here.