Stewart Island Flights provides the fastest and most convenient way to travel between Invercargill and Stewart Island (Rakiura). Operating regular scheduled flights year-round, this Southland-owned company offers visitors a scenic and efficient way to reach one of New Zealand’s most unique and untouched destinations.
Departing from Invercargill Airport, the short 20-minute flight to Stewart Island crosses the dramatic waters of Foveaux Strait and offers spectacular views of Oreti Beach, Bluff and New Zealand’s southern coastline. Then, you land close to Oban township.
With small aircraft carrying just nine passengers, travellers enjoy a relaxed check-in process, personalised service and more time to explore the natural beauty of Stewart Island.
Flights from Invercargill to Stewart Island
Stewart Island Flights operates daily flights between Invercargill and Stewart Island, providing the quickest and easiest way to reach the island.
Instead of travelling by road to Bluff and then catching the ferry, travellers can depart directly from Invercargill Airport. This airport is just minutes from the city centre.
The short scenic flight offers stunning aerial views of:
- Oreti Beach
- Bluff and Stirling Point
- Foveaux Strait
- Stewart Island’s rugged coastline
Within just 20 minutes, you’ll arrive on Stewart Island ready to begin exploring the island’s extraordinary landscapes and wildlife.
Why Choose Stewart Island Flights
The airline has been connecting travellers with Stewart Island for more than 40 years, offering reliable service and friendly Southland hospitality.
Passengers enjoy several advantages when travelling by air:
- Convenient departures from Invercargill Airport
- Quick and easy check-in only 30 minutes before departure
- Scenic 20-minute flight across Foveaux Strait
- Small aircraft with only nine passengers for a relaxed experience
- Secure storage for excess baggage
- Courtesy coach transfer from the Stewart Island airfield to Oban township
- Easy connections with local accommodation providers
Flying allows visitors to maximise their time on Stewart Island and begin their adventure as soon as they arrive.
Explore Stewart Island
Stewart Island (Rakiura) is New Zealand’s largest island national park, with approximately 85% of the island protected by the Department of Conservation.
Visitors travel to Stewart Island for its untouched landscapes, rich wildlife and peaceful atmosphere. Popular activities include:
- Kiwi spotting in the wild
- Tramping and nature walks
- Kayaking and boating
- Fishing and hunting
- Wildlife tours
- Scenic photography
- Golf at New Zealand’s southernmost course
Whether you’re visiting for a day trip or a longer stay, Stewart Island offers a rare opportunity to experience New Zealand nature at its most pristine.
Stewart Island Hunting Transport
Stewart Island Flights also provides specialised transport for hunters travelling to remote hunting blocks across the island.
With years of experience supporting hunting groups, the team can arrange flexible transport options suited to both large groups and smaller parties.
Flights can be customised depending on group requirements, equipment and trip duration, ensuring hunters reach their destination safely and efficiently.
Stewart Island Coast to Coast – Trampers Transport
One of Stewart Island Flights’ most unique experiences is the Stewart Island Coast to Coast adventure.
This journey allows trampers to experience spectacular scenery while exploring part of the famous North-West Circuit.
Travellers begin with a scenic flight over Paterson Inlet and Mason Bay, followed by an exciting beach landing. From Mason Bay, trampers walk to Freshwater Hut along a mostly flat four-hour track. This track passes through wetlands, dunes, forest and boardwalk sections across the famous Chocolate Swamp.
The journey concludes with a scenic boat trip along the Freshwater River and Paterson Inlet with Rakiura Water Taxis.
This adventure can be completed as:
- A day trip
- An overnight adventure
- A three-day exploration
Along the way visitors may have the rare opportunity to see New Zealand’s national bird, the kiwi, in its natural habitat.
Please note: This experience is not suitable for young children.
Stewart Island Flight Time and Departure Location
Flights depart from Invercargill Airport and take approximately 20 minutes to reach Stewart Island.
Passengers check in at the main terminal building at Invercargill Airport, where friendly staff assist with a smooth and efficient departure process.
On arrival at Stewart Island, passengers are transferred by courtesy coach to the depot in Oban township, where many accommodation providers meet guests directly.
Book Your Stewart Island Flight
Stewart Island Flights operates scheduled services year-round and is the only commercial airline providing regular flights to Stewart Island.
Whether you’re planning a short visit, a hunting trip or a multi-day adventure, flying from Invercargill is the fastest way to reach this extraordinary destination.
Contact Stewart Island Flights today to check availability and secure your seat.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the flight from Invercargill to Stewart Island?
The flight from Invercargill to Stewart Island takes approximately 20 minutes, offering scenic views of Oreti Beach, Bluff and Foveaux Strait.
Where do Stewart Island flights depart from?
Flights depart from Invercargill Airport in Southland and arrive near Oban township on Stewart Island.
Can you fly directly to Stewart Island?
Yes. The airline operates regular scheduled flights from Invercargill to Stewart Island year-round.
Is flying to Stewart Island better than taking the ferry?
Flying is the fastest way to reach Stewart Island, taking around 20 minutes compared with the longer ferry journey from Bluff.
What wildlife can you see on Stewart Island?
Stewart Island is famous for kiwi spotting, seabirds, native forests and marine wildlife. Therefore, it is one of New Zealand’s best nature destinations.
Stewart Island is one of the most remote and beautiful destinations in New Zealand. Explore more Southland attractions and activities on NZ Online Travel.
Book Your Stewart Island Flight from Invercargill
Plan your Stewart Island adventure today.
Check Stewart Island flight availability or contact Stewart Island Flights to confirm departure times and transport options.
