An unspoiled Island retreat nestled in the natural beauty of a bush setting in Halfmoon Bay, Stewart Island Lodge has unsurpassed views of the bay and surrounding hills. The large garden is host to many native birds, including native parrots, and many birds can be viewed right from the terrace. The Lodge provides a very high standard of comfort, with all the rooms having an ensuite, with bath and shower, hair dryer, shampoo and conditioner, etc.
Each room, including the bathroom, has central heating, the beds are supa king size or twin with goose down duvets and electric blankets. There is tea and coffee and fruit juice, plus a tin of home-made biscuits, refilled daily. The rooms are made welcoming with fresh fruit and flowers, and all have beautiful views. The main building includes a dining room and lounge suitably appointed with leather lounge suite, antique dining table and chairs, where you can relax in total comfort, look at the view and converse around a large fire on cooler days . . . while dinner, is being prepared from fish that you may well have caught yourself. True southern hospitality at its best.
A cocktail hour and Hor D'Oeuvers precede dinner, gourmet meals are gathered as much as possible from their own large herb garden and glasshouse. They use fresh local seafood including salmon, oysters and crayfish, and there is a large selection of New Zealand wines available, to maintain the relaxed atmosphere and dress is informal. The charm of both the Stewart Island and the Lodge will captivate you and a welcome is given to people of all ages to share the enjoyment of such a special place.
Stewart Island Marine operates a Catamaran from Bluff to Stewart Island which takes 60 minutes travelling time. Alternatively Stewart Island Flights operates from Invercargill to Stewart Island a 20 minute flight several times daily. There are many Stewart Island attractions from the natural beauty to the animal, bird, fish and plant life. Native birds include the Kiwi, Kaka, Bellbird, Wood Pigeon, Tui, Moorpork and Silver Eye. Stewart Island is the only place in the world where you can view the Brown Kiwi in its natural habitat.
The early History of the Island is most interesting and well worth investigating as is the Podacarp Forest which is a temperate rain forest. There are a number of walking tracks and fishing, diving, sea kayaking, deer stalking, and clay bird shooting are all popular pursuits.
There are launch trips, scenic flights, bus tours, and a large number of sea creatures including penguins and mammals. There are many living botanical fossila and orchids and there's even a 6 hole golf course.
