Ulva Island Discovery Tour

Ulva Island Tour is an absolute “Must Do”

The Island is part of Rakiura National Park and now free of introduced animals and is fast becoming a glimpse into New Zealand’s ancient past. Several species of threatened birds have been reintroduced to this open sanctuary and are doing very well. In addition the forest is flourishing without the influence of rats and deer. The orchids are particularly impressive during their flowering seasons ….. more about Ulva Island ……

Party size is small ( generally 6 or less) as we firmly believe larger parties seriously degrades the experience, Your guides will be either Peter or Iris, sometimes we will both guide.

Peters duties as Forest Ranger many years ago included overseeing and managing Ulva Island. He was involved with some projects that are now an integral part of Ulva Island management. Our guided walks and commentary explains these and also subsequent projects that have resulted in the Ulva Island we now enjoy.

Iris’s long involvement was recognised when she was appointed a foundation Trustee of Ulva Island.t for access allows us to time our visits to take advantage of weather windows if conditions are boisterous. It also gives us the flexibility to avoid times when the Island may be busy with other visitors

We like to time our visits to take advantage of weather windows if conditions are boisterous and also to avoid times when the Island may be busy with other visitors

And it isn’t strenuous

Our standard tour is around 4 hrs and includes all transfers, DoC Fees & etc.Tours can start early morning or late afternoon when the birds are at their best And if you’d like longer on the Island we can arrange for you to stay on and be picked up later.
You will need walking shoes or sneakers, warmish clothes…. layers are best as much of the walk is under heavy forest canopy… and a coat is a good idea.

And please make sure your camera batteries are charged. We discover a flat battery in the party at least once a week.

Generally we have a two person minimum numbers policy, but if you are staying at either Sails Ashore or Kowhai Lane as a single we waive this requirement.

We are happy to offer exclusive and customised tours,

There are lots of opportunities for photographs of both birds and the forest.

While our “Sails” Guided Ulva Island Experience is packaged with “Sails Ashore” and “Kowhai Lane” accommodation we also welcome casual bookings, and the tariff includes transfers at start and end of tour.

We are happy to assist disabled guests including those restricted to wheel-chairs. enjoy the magic of Ulva, If necessary we will take an extra guide to assist.

* Please note … minimum party size is 2 guests, however this requirement is waived if you are staying at either Sails Ashore or Kowhai Lane. If you are a single please check with us as we probably have a party you can join.