Upgraded Viewing Platform on Stewart Island Enhances Visitor Experience

The Observation Rock viewpoint, renowned for its exceptional night skies on Stewart Island, has been reopened to the public after the completion of a new viewing platform and safety barrier.

The construction project, which started in July, was aimed at enhancing the visitor experience and ensuring safety at the popular site. Despite challenging winter weather conditions, the work was finished earlier this month, in time for the upcoming summer tourist rush, and remarkably, under budget.

Jennifer Ross, the Stewart Island Operations Manager for the Department of Conservation (DOC), expressed satisfaction with the timely completion of the project. “The new platform provides a secure spot for tourists to enjoy the stunning daytime vistas of Paterson Inlet and the spectacular night sky,” Ross said.

The upgrade has received support from the local community, with appreciation for the patience and understanding shown during the construction period.

Observation Rock, which has been used as a viewing area for many years, gained additional fame after the International Dark Sky Association officially designated Stewart Island as a Dark Sky Sanctuary in early 2019. Since then, the spot has become increasingly favored by night-sky enthusiasts.

Amie Young, the Destination Development Manager for Great South, highlighted the site’s importance since it attained Dark Sky Sanctuary status, noting that the enhanced platform with improved safety features makes it an even more attractive destination for both residents and visitors.

The idea for the safety platform was initially put forward by the Stewart Island Community Board in response to safety concerns. Funding for the project came from the Stewart Island Visitor Levy, MBIE’s Tourism Infrastructure Fund, and early contributions from DOC, which also oversaw the project management through to its completion.