Ulva Island's only wharf is ready for one more summer season, following essential maintenance work now having now been completed.

The Rakiura wharf - owned by the Southland District Council (SDC) and other Stewart Island residents, has had restrictions placed on it after concerns were raised about its condition.

The SDC has been investigating alternative locations since 2014, with a plan to build a new $1.2M structure at nearby Bathing Beach subsequently ditched after agreement could not be reached between SDC, DOC and the sole Ulva Island landowner over funding and maintenance of a joining track.

SDC chief executive Cameron McIntosh said planning was now well under way for a full rebuild of the wharf in its current location - Post Office Cove - once the season concluded.

The new wharf is expected to be completed by October 2026, but exact timeframes would be subject to approvals, he said.

The project will be part-funded by a 50% grant from the Tourism Infrastructure Fund and the Stewart Island Visitor Levy.

Council will continue to work closely with stakeholders, including iwi, the Department of Conservation, the Hunter Family Trust, and local operators, to ensure the project proceeds smoothly, McIntosh said.

“Ulva Island is a jewel in Southland’s crown."

"This maintenance ensures visitors can enjoy it safely this summer, and the planned rebuild will secure access for generations to come.”

McIntosh said the jetty at Millars Beach and the Golden Bay wharf, both in Paterson Inlet, had also been repaired in time for the holiday season.