Paterson Inlet / Whaka a Te Wera is a large, shallow ria, or submerged ancient river valley, located on Stewart Island Rakiura in Southland, New Zealand. It is one of the largest sheltered harbours in southern New Zealand. The primary access point for paddlers is the township of Oban, from which guided tours and independent launches are possible. The waters are noted for their exceptional clarity due to minimal sediment and nutrient run-off from the pristine, undeveloped land surrounding the inlet. The southern coast of Ulva Island, which sits within the inlet, is specifically highlighted as an excellent area for kayaking and canoeing. Paddlers in this area can expect to see wildlife such as fur seals, sea lions, and yellow-eyed penguins. The inlet is part of the Ulva Island-Te Wharawhara Marine Reserve, a protected area teeming with marine life. Water temperatures are cold year-round, with an average of 12 degrees Celsius in February dropping to around 8 degrees in July, necessitating appropriate thermal protection such as wetsuits for any extended immersion. The inlet's geography creates a generally sheltered environment, though paddlers must always be mindful of weather changes typical of southern New Zealand. Its historical significance includes early Māori settlement and later European activities like sawmilling, with remnants such as eucalyptus groves visible along the shores. For navigation, official New Zealand Raster Navigational Charts (RNC) for Paterson Inlet are available digitally.