Eight hundred kilometres east of the South Island, the Chatham Islands are part a vast submerged continent known as Zealandia. Around three million years ago, these remote islands were uplifted from the ocean floor. They brought to the surface a fascinating geology of ancient continental rocks, limestone and undersea volcanoes.
The Chatham Islands were first inhabited by the Moriori people, Polynesians with similar origins to the New Zealand Maori. European sealers and whalers were the next to arrive, followed by Maori from the New Zealand mainland. The Moriori had strong pacifist beliefs and their population was severely reduced by Maori raiding parties. Descendants of Moriori still live in the Chatham Islands; Te Kopinga, a newly built marae (centre for the community), is testimony to a resurgence of their culture.
Old fashioned hospitality
Chatham Islanders are relaxed and friendly. For many visitors, the warmth of the local hospitality is a reminder of times gone by. The islands operate a host system, which means visitors must book their accommodation ahead. Your host is then responsible for looking after you during your stay. Local tour guides have permission to visit many of the attractions that are on private land, so it's a good idea put yourself in their hands for part of your visit.
A well-stocked ocean
With nothing but ocean at every point of the compass, the Chatham Islands are rightly famous for fresh seafood and fascinating marine life. Daily catches of cod, groper, crayfish (lobster) and shellfish take pride of place on local menus. The resident fur seal colonies are easy to visit and passing dolphins and orca can sometimes be seen from the shore.
Tranquil lagoon
Te Whanga lagoon offers an expansive haven for swimming, kayaking and sailing, as well as recreational fishing. On the shores of the lagoon, near Blind Jim's Creek, careful fossicking is likely to be rewarded by the discovery of fossilised shark teeth. Around 30 million years old, these teeth are a treasure of the island. Some, from the jaws of prehistoric megaladon, are around 10 centimetres long.
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| Chatham Island Forget-me-not |
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Beaches, birdlife and unique flowering plants
Geographically isolated for millions of years, the Chathams have witnessed the evolution of unique bird and plant species. The Chatham Island black robin is a great conservation success story. Less well-known however are the very rare taiko and shore plover, as well as several endemic species. An outer island albatross colony can be viewed by boat.
The delightful Chatham Island forget-me-not (Myosotidium hortensia) features large blue flower heads that emerge each spring from the glossy dark green leaves. A forest walk near Te Whanga lagoon leads to stands of flowering nikau palms and glades of broadleaf native forest.
Real weather
While the ocean's influence prevents extreme temperatures, it does bring a passing parade of different types of weather to the islands. In winter, rain wear and thermals will keep you cosy while you're exploring outdoors. For spring and autumn, you'll need lighter clothing - but bring the wet weather gear and thermals just in case! In summer, definitely pack your swimming gear.
In wild weather and calm, roaming the island on foot is a great way to relax and shake off the stresses of modern life. Along with the fascinating cloud patterns and seascapes, there’s a special quality to the light in the Chathams which suggests you’ve found one of the rarest places on Earth.
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Chathams Islands
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Key Tips
- Air Chathams is the only way to get to the islands. They operate regular flights from Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch.
- Visitors must have confirmed accommodation before travelling to the Chatham Islands, so please book your accommodation before arranging your flights with Air Chathams.
- Chatham Islands time is 45 minutes ahead of mainland New Zealand. When it’s 1pm on the mainland, it’s 1.45pm in the Chathams.
- Remember, the weather can change quickly - pack some warm clothing and rain gear.
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