Description
Stewart Island Flights
Your gateway to Rakiura — scenic flights departing daily from Invercargill Airport to one of New Zealand's most untouched wilderness destinations.
About Stewart Island Flights
Stewart Island Flights has been connecting the South Island to Rakiura/Stewart Island for years, offering a fast and breathtaking alternative to the ferry crossing from Bluff. Operating from Invercargill Airport on Airport Avenue, the airline runs scheduled daily services to Ryan's Creek Aerodrome on Stewart Island, with a flight time of just 20 minutes across Foveaux Strait.
What makes this journey truly special is the view. Passengers are treated to sweeping panoramas of the Southland coastline, the turquoise waters of Foveaux Strait, and the dense native bush of Rakiura as they descend toward the island. It's not just a transfer — it's a scenic highlight in its own right.
What They Offer
Scheduled Flights
Daily scheduled services between Invercargill Airport and Stewart Island (Ryan's Creek Aerodrome). Flights depart multiple times per day during peak season, with reduced schedules in winter. The 20-minute flight replaces the hour-long ferry crossing and is ideal for travellers wanting to maximise their time on the island.
Scenic Flights
Dedicated scenic flight options take passengers over the rugged coastline, native bush, and remote bays of Stewart Island and the surrounding area. These flights offer a bird's-eye view of one of New Zealand's least-visited corners — perfect for photographers and nature lovers.
Charter Flights
Flexible charter services are available for groups, special occasions, or custom itineraries. Whether you're heading to a remote hunting lodge, fishing spot, or planning a unique experience, the team can tailor a flight to suit.
Why Locals and Visitors Love It
With a stellar 4.9-star rating from 50 Google reviews, Stewart Island Flights consistently earns praise for their friendly pilots, smooth operations, and the sheer wow factor of the flight itself. Travellers frequently describe the journey as a highlight of their entire New Zealand trip — the combination of convenience, speed, and spectacular scenery makes it hard to beat.
For Southland locals heading across for a weekend of tramping, fishing, or birdwatching on Rakiura, the flight is the fastest and most enjoyable way to get there. The team is known for being flexible and accommodating, especially when weather conditions shift — a reality of flying in the deep south.
Good to Know
Stewart Island Flights operates from a dedicated terminal at Invercargill Airport, with free on-site parking for passengers. Baggage allowances apply (typically 15kg per person), and excess luggage can usually be accommodated on the next available flight. The aircraft are small, high-wing planes that offer excellent visibility from every seat.
Bookings can be made online through their website or by calling the office directly. During peak season (November–March), early booking is recommended as flights fill quickly.
Get in Touch
- Address: 106 Airport Avenue, Invercargill 9810
- Phone: 03 218 9129
- Email: info@stewartislandflights.co.nz
- Website: stewartislandflights.co.nz
- Facebook: Stewart Island Flights on Facebook
- Instagram: @stewartislandflights
