About 275 kilometers (170.88 miles) of walking tracks cover the top northern half of the island with few tracks in the lower southern part. There are several easy walks within Oban Township varying between ten to twenty minutes. These walks include popular Observation Rock where you can watch the sunset in the evening and enjoy the views of Paterson Inlet. On Fuchsia and Raroa walks you will see native fuchsia trees and may encounter native birds. Other walks around Oban include Ackers Point Track and Golden Bay Track, which offer nice coastal views. Another place of interest would be Motorau Moana Native Garden where you can enjoy a picnic amongst the birds and native flora.Longer walks include Horseshoe Bay Track and Maori Beach offering coastal views and native forest.The Rakiura Track is one of nine New Zealand’s Great Walks. It is a moderate three-day, 36km hike through native forest along coastal areas and sites of historical significance.
For those who seek a little bit more adventurous hikes - The North West Circuit would do just fine. It is a 10 to 12 days hike for experienced and well–equipped trampers. It covers 125 kilometers (77.67 miles) but is very demanding due to the often wet and muddy sections of the track for which Stewart Island is famous. While on this track you may wish to take a few side trips to Mount Anglem and Rocky Mountain, which provide exceptional views across the whole Island. The North West Circuit is especially desired by solitude seeking hikers as you probably won’t meet much people there. The Circuit offers dramatic coastline and stunning beaches and an opportunity to see more of the Island’s wildlife and flora. Huts are spaced at intervals suited to an average day’s tramp which is about six to seven hours of walking.

The Southern Circuit walk is even more of a wilderness experience. It takes between six and nine days to walk, and is about 105 kilometers (65.24 miles) long. This track is only suitable for experienced and well equipped trampers. Side trips to Mount Rakeahua and Rocky Mountain are recommended for the great views they provide.

Stewart Island walking tracks are open all year round but remember that the weather is unpredictable and take it into consideration when planning your hikes.