Explore Oneke as day turns to night. “The Neck” is a special area, home to unique culture, wild kiwi and beautiful coastal landscapes. Listen to stories of the island’s rich Māori and European history and culture before searching for Rakiura tokoeka (Stewart Island brown kiwi) as night falls. Relax in the whare (Māori building) for a warming cup of cocoa, tea or coffee before your return cruise to Oban.
Includes:
- Return sea cruise on a comfortable catamaran
- Exclusive access to remote and secluded Oneke, ‘The Neck’
- Evening and night time guided walk along beaches and through forests
- Storytelling of Oneke’s Māori and European history and culture
- Searching for wild Rakiura tokoeka (Stewart Island brown kiwi)
- A hot cup of cocoa, tea or coffee in a brand-new whare (Māori building)
About Rakiura Tokoeka/Southern Brown Kiwi
- Tokoeka are a taonga species (a natural treasure and highly valued) to Rakiura Māori
- The Rakiura Tokoeka is only found on Stewart Island
- Tokoeka means “weka with a walking stick”, referencing their long beak!
- The Rakiura Tokoeka are closely related to Fiordland Tokoeka
- The tokoeka face many threats, you can help by donating to our trapping initiatives
Important information
A reasonable level of fitness is required (total walking time approximately 2 hours depending on kiwi behaviour). The walking track can be uneven and muddy at times, therefore please ensure you wear adequate footwear and are dressed for warmth including a wind and waterproof jacket. On occasions we may need to cancel a trip due to weather – please ensure that you provide contact information, so that we can keep you updated.
This experience aims to discover wild kiwis in their natural habitat. While you have a higher chance of finding them with our expert staff, wild animals are unpredictable, and there is no 100% guarantee kiwis will appear. Their rareness, their wild nature, and the thrill of searching are what makes the experience special and enjoyable, so we cannot offer refunds if there is no sighting.
