Our Story
Beaks & Feathers hatched in 2015. Owner Angela Karaitiana saw a niche for a guided walk business specialising in small boutique walks and tours. Keeping group sizes small allows for guests to genuinely have their interests, needs and abilities taking care of in a friendly Stewart Island local manner.
Angela first came to Stewart Island from Nelson in 1991 as part of a DSIR (Department of Scientific and Industrial Research) conservation team who helped set up Ulva Island to become predator free. Stewart Island is a special place and even though Angela was originally only to be on there for 3 – 6 months, it turned into 8 years. During these years of working for DSIR and DOC (Department of Conservation), a passion for native flora and birdlife grew. She left the island with her family for schooling, while returning each school holidays. In 2012 the Island drew her back permanently. Angela worked for different guiding companies for a couple of years before creating her ultimate job.
Beaks & Feathers was created so others can enjoy the wonders of the amazing birdlife on Rakiura as much as we do. Our guides are fully committed to ensuring great experiences. They are passionate experienced locals who respect the ancient forest, birdlife and sealife. We follow the philosophy of leave only footsteps, take only photos. We love sharing our world with you.
Helping keep Kiwi safe from predators
Beaks & Feathers are doing their bit towards Predator Free Rakiura and Predator Free NZ by trapping around the land we use for Kiwi Spotting.
We trap for rats with Kamate Traps and Goodnature Traps. Possums with Trapinator traps and Goodnature Traps.
A little bit about Stewart Island (Rakiura)
Stewart Island (Rakiura) is New Zealand’s third largest Island, approximately 75kms long and 45kms wide. Oban/Halfmoon Bay the main settlement is situated 22 nautical miles from Bluff – separated from the South Island by Foveaux Strait.
Stewart Island has around 400 residents, mainly concentrated in and around Oban/Halfmoon Bay which is on the eastern side of the Island. Over 80 percent of Stewart Island is Rakiura National Park. There is only approximately 25kms of road.
The weather on Stewart Island is changeable. Four seasons in one day is not unusual. Average rainfall is 1600mm around the coast rising to 3000mm in the hills. It rains for 200 – 250 days per year. Average summer temperature is 14 -16 degrees. Winter is 6 – 10 degrees. When you plan to come to Stewart Island plan for all weather conditions.
Stewart Island Balms, Body Scrubs, Soaps and more, skilfully handmade in using only organic & natural ingredients that work
We are a collective of creative minds, living and working on beautiful Stewart Island (Rakiura). Our products are all handmade from organic, homegrown and locally sourced ingredients that are beneficial and healing for the body and soul.
