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New Zealand's Newest National Park - Stewart Island

Image Source: Tourism New Zealand. Ringaringa Beach, Stewart Island, Southland, New Zealand
Ringaringa Beach, Stewart Island
Photographer: Gilbert van Reenen
(www.cleangreen.co.nz)

Of New Zealand's three main islands, Stewart Island is the southernmost and smallest (about 75 kilometres long and up to 45 kilometres wide). Approval has recently been granted for Stewart Island to become New Zealand's latest National Park—it will be known as Rakiura National Park.

Stewart Island is the most natural of New Zealand's three main islands—the least farmed, least logged, least burnt and least built on. The forests contain the last remnants of what the rest of Southland's native forests were once like. Protecting these habitats, particularly on the pest-free offshore islands, is essential for the long-term survival of kiwi, yellow-eyed penguin, kakapo, New Zealand dotterel, bats, weka, South Island saddleback and wetas (a large cricket-type flightless insect).

For anyone seeking peace and tranquillity, Stewart Island is the ultimate spot. There are superb bush walks and great launch cruises around some of New Zealand's most beautiful coastline. The island's amazingly clear and clean waters make it a snorkelling and diving paradise.

For further information about Stewart Island view our Stewart Island regional information section.

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