Southland locals head to Stewart Island for big adventure

Kate and Tim Manson, the new Owner Operators of Four Square Stewart Island

Stewart Island – whose name in te reo Māori means ‘Land of the Glowing Skies’ - is a place of unparalleled beauty and one of the southernmost settlements in the entire world. 

Oban, the island’s only town, is home to about 400 residents. And Four Square Stewart Island, its sole supermarket, has just welcomed Southland locals Tim and Kate Manson as new owner operators.

The position was an irresistible adventure for Tim and Kate when the chance to take ownership arose in 2024. 

"It was an opportunity you don't get every day," Tim says.

“I can't think of any other store so remote, with unique complexities and challenges, situated in such a stunning place."

Building on their successful first two years as owner operators of Four Square Bluff, Tim and Kate are bringing their experience and enthusiasm to Stewart Island.

“Everyone has been hugely welcoming,” Tim says. 

"The locals are friendly and quick to introduce themselves, share stories about the island, and make me feel like family." 

With Stewart Island’s remoteness comes unparalleled beauty, but also logistical hurdles. There is only one weekly store delivery from Bluff by boat and meticulous planning is crucial. 

Tim says he thrives in this environment.

“A challenge with running an island store is coordinating what we order,” he says. “If we miss that delivery, we need to wait another week to get what we need.

“During the busiest seasons, this will become more of a challenge as we’ll be servicing all sorts of customers and need everything from everyday essentials for locals, to specialised camping and hunting gear for visiting tourists. 

“Thankfully, so far all our customers have been incredibly understanding, even when the occasional storm delays the ferry."

Life on Stewart Island is a blend of serenity and adventure. Many locals work on fishing boats, the island's primary industry, and conservation efforts are a vital part of its character.

Tim and Kate are champions of local producers, stocking the shelves with the freshest Stewart Island salmon and other regional delicacies like Bluff oysters. They’ve become the first retailer on the island to stock high-grade salmon caught locally and processed in Bluff.

This passion for supporting local spills over into community events as well.

In May 2024 – only a few weeks into their new roles - Tim and Kate helped organise one of the biggest events the island has ever seen.

Six60, one of New Zealand's most beloved bands, chose the island as the final stop of their nationwide grassroots tour.

Ahead of the concert, in the parking lot of the Four Square store, Tim and Kate hosted a life-size replica of the Dunedin student flat band members once lived in. They transformed the store into a vibrant community event, complete with giveaways, booming music, and a haka was performed for the band by local students from Halfmoon Bay School.

"Stewart Island is usually a very quiet place," Tim says. 

“But that week everyone was just buzzing. It was amazing to create such a unique experience for the community.

“Stewart Island may be remote, but I’m determined to keep it supplied and well connected.”