The Best of the Chatham Islands from Christchurch

Our Chatham Islands program begins at Christchurch Airport where we gather prior to flying to the Chatham Islands at 1pm. Upon arrival you will be transferred to the Hotel Chathams in Waitangi which is our home away from home for the week and the base for our exploration of the Chatham Islands.

Itinerary Highlights These are just some of the places that you will explore and visit. Every trip may differ due to weather or factors out of control, and we can not guarantee that you will be able to access all locations Kaingaroa & Te Whanga Lagoon Here the coastline is a mixture of sweeping white sand beaches interrupted only by occasional headlands, on these headlands both Chatham and Pitt Islands Shags are often seen as well as Fur Seals breeding on the rocks below. Some of the best examples of the Chatham’s unique coastal vegetation are found here. Kaingaroa is historically important as one of the first areas settled by Europeans. Nearby we have the privilege of visiting the Hapupu Reserve where the Kopi trees still bear the enigmatic engravings of the Moriori. Henga Scenic Reserve Throughout the week we are focusing on the unique botanical nature of the Chatham Islands with its many endemic plant species but one of the highlights is a visit to Henga Scenic Reserve and Nursery, we will walk through the regenerating coastal forest as it transitions to sand dune vegetation. There is also the opportunity to purchase native Chatham’s plants from the nursery. At the Nikau Reserve we will be able to explore the protected 19ha reserve that conserves the broadleaf forest and a fine stand of endemic Nikau palms. We will also plan to visit the stunning sheltered gardens of Val Snr & Lois Croon, planted in an array of native and exotic species these gardens showcase the floral diversity of the Chathams. Waitangi West, Maunganui & Ohira Bay In the North West of the Chatham’s there are extensive farms, fern lands and striking volcanic cones. Travelling to the end of the road at Waitangi West we find more sweeping white sand beaches and here there is the opportunity to look for the endemic Chatham Island Oyster Catcher. On the lower slopes of Maunganui we will visit the stone cottage, built entirely of local materials including mortar made from burnt pipi shells. At Ohira Bay we will explore the massive columnar basalt columns that are nearly 80 million years old. Pitt Island (Additional Excursion) You can opt to fly to Pitt Island, the second largest Island in the Chatham’s and the only other inhabited island, with a population of just 45 life here is generally peaceful. Spend the day here exploring the islands nature reserves, visiting Mt Hakepa and enjoying lunch hosted at the Flower Pott Lodge. This is an optional excursion of NZ$450. If you choose to not go to Pitt Island, then enjoy a day exploring around Waitangi. The South Coast The south coast of Chatham Island is completely different to the rest of the island, rising to higher elevations and still retaining significant areas of vegetation that thrives in the thick covering of peat that blankets the landscape. Owenga Fishing Village The fishing village of Owenga is where you will be able to see the statue commemorating Tommy Solomon, the last full blooded Moriori. Standing atop the Rangaiki Cliffs with their 250m high sheer drop to the sea below there are amazing views on a clear day to Pitt and Mangere Islands as well as out to the seldom seen 44’s. The Kopinga Marae is an expression of Moriori spirituality and culture and an opportunity for you to learn about the history of the first inhabitants of the Chatham Islands (known to Moriori as Rekohu). PLEASE NOTE: Itineraries are subject to change. The Pitt Island day trip, which is valued at $450 is not included in the price. You are able to pre-pay for this excursion which will place you on a priority list of passengers. If you prefer to book the trip once you arrive, we can deduct $450 from the cost of the trip.

After breakfast this morning we make our way to the Airport for our return flight to Christchurch where we expect to arrive at midday.

Itineraries are subject to change. The Pitt Island day trip, which is valued at $450 is not included in the price. You are able to pre-pay for this excursion which will place you on a priority list of passengers. If you prefer to book the trip once you arrive, we can deduct $450 from the cost of the trip.