TIWAI POINT WALKING TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Port William to Maori Beach: A half‑day hike along the Rakiura Track
A guided 10 km, 3–4 hour coastal and native‑bush hike that begins with a 30‑minute water taxi from Halfmoon Bay Wharf and finishes at Lee Bay — a focused guide for hikers who can manage stairs, rock‑hopping and uneven ground.
Port William to Maori Beach: A half‑day hike along the Rakiura Track.
Set on the southern reaches of Stewart Island/Rakiura, the Port William / Maori Beach guided hike with Beaks & Feathers is a half‑day section of the Rakiura Track that pairs a short coastal water taxi with a substantive 10 km hike through native bush and shoreline. Expect steps, rock‑hopping and sweeping coastal viewpoints as you move from the Port William jetty to Lee Bay under guided support.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A true section of the Rakiura Track
This hike follows day one of the Rakiura Track: a roughly 10 km route that combines coastal walking and native bush, taking hikers from Port William toward Lee Bay with stops for photos and rest along the way.
A short water taxi start
The experience begins with a scenic water taxi ride from Halfmoon Bay to Port William, delivering a dramatic coastal approach before the hike proper.
Steps, rock‑hopping and varied trail
The trail is clearly a hike rather than a stroll: expect many steps, uneven ground and occasional rock‑hopping as you move between beaches and bush sections.
What the day feels like
What the half‑day feels like
The outing moves with intent: meet at Halfmoon Bay Wharf, cross the water by taxi to Port William, then set off for a sustained 3–4 hour hike along the Rakiura Track toward Lee Bay. The guided group pauses for photos, snacks and short rests, negotiating steps and rocky shore sections before meeting a shuttle at Lee Bay for the return.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this hike suits — and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Wear sturdy walking shoes and active wear; bring layered clothing, a small daypack, snacks, water and sun/rain protection as appropriate.
Plan for a 3–4 hour outing for the hike portion; the full activity includes the water taxi and shuttle logistics.
Meet at Halfmoon Bay Wharf prior to departure for boarding the water taxi to Port William.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the hike and how much time should I expect to set aside?
The guided section covers roughly 10 km and the hike portion takes about 3–4 hours; include additional time for the water taxi and shuttle transfers.
Where do I meet for this trip?
You meet the guide at Halfmoon Bay Wharf prior to boarding the water taxi to Port William.
Is this hike suitable for children or older participants?
The tour is suitable for families but requires a good level of fitness; participants must be able to walk unassisted for at least four hours and handle uneven ground and many steps.
What should I wear and bring?
Bring sturdy walking shoes and active wear; dress in layers and carry water, snacks and sun/rain protection.
How does the trip begin and end?
The trip begins with a 30‑minute water taxi from Halfmoon Bay to Port William, a guided hike of about 10 km to Lee Bay, and concludes with a shuttle pick‑up at Lee Bay to return to Halfmoon Bay.
Who operates the hike?
The guided Port William / Maori Beach hike is operated by Beaks & Feathers.