Ringaringa Beach + Wohlers Monument, Stewart Island

There are heaps of options for short walks around Oban, the main village on Stewart Island. The walk to Ringaringa Beach and then the tracks near Wohlers Monument is an underrated one — we had no idea what to expect and it was way better than I could have imagined!

Walking to Ringaringa Beach

There are two main routes to Ringaringa Beach. Consider walking one way there and the other on the way back, although if you’re short on time just walk via Lonnekers Beach there and back. The walk from Oban to Ringaringa Beach should take just over half an hour. First head to Lonnekers Beach (which is on the way to Ackers Point Lighthouse) then walk up Wohlers Road. You’ll pass the golf course before reaching Ringaringa Beach.

You can also get there via the Golden Bay Track, which is longer. We came from that side on the way there and walked back through Lonnekers Beach on the way back. You could also get a taxi there or ride bikes / e-bikes.

Ringaringa Beach

You’ll get a good view of Ringaringa Beach from the road above. Access was blocked when we visited, there was probably another entrance but we didn’t find it (the road is quite a bit higher than the beach). From there it’s an easy walk to the Wohlers Monument along a gravely road.

READ MORE: 17 of the Best Things to Do in Stewart Island

Wohlers Monument

Johann Wohlers was a German missionary who lived on Ruapuke Island (a nearby island) for over 40 years. There’s a monument surrounded by trees and some seats nearby. There’s also a small graveyard.

A Scenic Short Walk

From the seat at the top of the hill you can walk down and explore the small peninsula. We walked around this area for an hour or so and saw some awesome views. I’m not sure what it’s officially called (can’t find much information online) but if you’re keen to see the views below you should consider a visit!

There are several viewpoints and beaches where you can stop and take in the surroundings. You can see several small islands (including Ulva Island) and lots of bays and coves. We visited in winter and it was almost deserted, it may be busier in summer though. All up this walk should take a couple of hours. Consider bringing a picnic and making a day out of it!

READ MORE: Southland Travel Guide: Tips for a Fun Trip to Southland

Are you planning a trip to Stewart Island? Check out our post about the best things to do!

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Jon Algie

I'm a South Island local -- born in Timaru and raised in Dunedin. I left the island in 2006 and returned 10 years later. Having seen a good chunk of the world I realised how special this place is -- the most beautiful island in the world! Seven years (and almost 400 posts) later I'm still helping locals and tourists alike plan their trips around the South Island.

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