Historic Norwegian Whaling Station Tour & Freedom Walk

Get off-the-beaten-track… Not just every visitor visits the whaler’s base – but it is a bit of a local favourite.

Be dropped off on the golden sand at Millar’s Beach. Then, cross through old Rimu-rich forest on the bush track to the whaler’s base.

Along the way discover pieces of history characterising Stewart Island’s diverse and rich past. At the whaler’s base explore a ship wreck, sizeable discarded propellers, an old Swedish boiler, factory foundations, and informational placards.

Get a feel for what life was like in this flourishing Stewart Island settlement. A settlement that was an important connection between Antarctica, New Zealand, and Norway in the early 1900s.

Book your Historic Norwegian Whaling Station Tour!

Historic Norwegian Whaling Station – FAQs | Rakiura Adventure

Historic Norwegian Whaling Station

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know before your visit to the Historic Norwegian Whaling Station, Stewart Island/Rakiura.

How long should I spend looking around?

We recommend approximately 2 hours. We drop you off at Millars Beach wharf, from where you walk about 30 minutes through the forest to the site of the historic whaling station.

What will I see?

The walk through the forest is stunning, and at the site of the historic whaling station you will encounter factory remains including a large boiler, massive propellers, and informational panels with photos and artist sketches.

Do I need to book in advance?

Yes — we recommend booking in advance to secure the times and dates you wish for. If you cannot find the times online, you can call or email us at any time.

How much does it cost?

Discounted fares increase as group sizes increase:

1–2 adults — $80 per person
3–4 adults — $70 per person
5–7 adults — $60 per person
8–9 adults — $50 per person

What happens if the weather is bad?

If we deem the weather conditions or forecast to be dangerous, we will cancel the booking and you will receive a full refund. Please note, Stewart Island does receive a lot of rain and wind at times — be sure to bring clothing for all conditions. We can provide up-to-date forecasts to help you make informed decisions.

Book Now