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STEWART ISLAND ...WHERE?

It's inevitable that alongside the signpost in the main street of Oban, detailing the major attractions (Deer Park, Post Office, Museum, and Observation Rock) there is another one which lists, among others, San Francisco, Tokyo and the South Pole. Which, if you are interested, are 6590, 5245 and 2551 miles away, respectively.

Of course the South Pole is mentioned because there is not a lot more between this southern outpost of New Zealand, and the frosty continent. Stewart Island (population around 500)  is New Zealand's third largest island, a jigsaw-shaped bit of land, around 65 kilometres by 40 kilometres, that snapped off sometime long ago in the earth's history and slipped 32 kilometres away across what is now the Foveaux Strait.

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This article continues with details of this tiny southern island and  includes information on accommodation provided, local food and cuisine, things to do and see.

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Somehow when you spend a while in this intimate community, the rest of the world begins to melt away. It doesn't matter that Antarctica is your neighbour, and that the nearest land is a choppy hour away by fast boat. Forget that even the Tourist Information sheet admits that rains falls on  many days, but that a good day is ‘memorable’.

Spend a week there and you begin to understand Sam the bus driver's decision better. Stay for a month, and you might never leave.

©Sally Hammond 2006

Picture Credits: ©Gordon Hammond 2006

(Sally and Gordon Hammond travelled to New Zealand with Air New Zealand)

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