Discover the Chatham Islands... The Chatham Islands are New Zealand’s eastern most outpost, the first place in the world to welcome the new day and a treasure trove of endemic plants and animals that have evolved in isolation and make these islands one of New Zealand’s most biologically important regions.


Originally colonized by the Moriori people who created a unique lifestyle and society on the islands while living in isolation from the outside world on the abundant natural resources of the sea and land. Later European and Maori arrivals brought their own history and traditions which have melded together to create the culture of the Chatham Islands. Today many locals are descended from Moriori genealogy, a history and culture that you can discover during your stay.


The Chatham Islands lie at the eastern extremity of the Chatham Rise and were formed by a combination of volcanic activity and uplift of the underlying basement rocks to create the low lying rolling landscape of the main island while the outlying smaller islands are the remains of individual volcanic events. The fauna and flora of the Chatham’s has strong affinities to the main islands of New Zealand but through isolation many species have evolved to the local climate becoming unique to the islands. The oceanic climate ensures a wide diversity of species are able to flourish while the ocean brings its own unique abundance of sea life including the albatross and petrels that breed primarily on the offshore Islands. Our Chatham Islands program is designed from our long experience of travelling and working in these remarkable islands to give you the greatest opportunity to experience all that the islands are able to offer.


Discover the Chatham Islands

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.

Forget me not Suites

$4,989 NZD pp
- Forget Me Not Suite - King or two single beds - Ensuite with shower - Lounge area​- Fully equipped kitchen - Veranda with sea views - Sky TV and WiFi - One suite has wheelchair access option

Chathams Motel

$4,989 NZD pp
Single room

The Wild Earth Travel Chatham Island itineraries stay at the following places:

  • Hotel Chatham
  • The Forget-me-not Suites
  • Chatham Rise Motel
  • Travellers Rest
  • Beach Houses
Enquire with Wild Earth Travel to find out the accommodation you will be staying at for your departure date.

Hotel Chatham - Seaside charm and hospitality

Hotel Chatham looks out across Waitangi Bay to the wharf, broad sweeping beach and Red Bluff in the distance. With its restaurant, timber-lined bar and relaxed atmosphere, it's where the heart of the island beats. 

The Forget-me-not Suites

These nine spacious five star suites offer you luxury, space and views for your ultimate Island holiday! They were opened in 2020, so offer you a fresh modern stay in the heart of the Chatham's. 

Chatham Rise Motel

The Chatham Rise Motel is a good option for independent travellers, and small holidaying or working groups wanting quiet and privacy, just 700 metres up from Hotel Chatham. Chatham Rise Motel includes four units: Unit 1 has five bedrooms with a large shared lounge and kitchen, group dining table and comfortable lounge. Laundry is available onsite. Hotel Chatham runs a courtesy van to and from the Bar and Restaurant. 

Traveller's Rest

Travellers Rest includes a large shared lounge, traditional porch with sea views, tradittionally-styled rooms, a self-contained unit and a two-bedroom unit with provate lounge and fully equipped kitchen. 

The Beach Houses

The Beach Houses include a two-bedroom cottage overlooking a private garden, three individual units within a house, and a separate self-contained unit. The Beach Houses are tucked in behind the bright white sand dunes along Waitangi Bay. The stunning beach is right on your doorstep. The Beach Houses are located 1100 metres from Hotel Chatham. Hotel Chatham runs a courtesy van to and from the Bar and Restaurant.

Restaurant

Fish, freshly caught from the converging current waters around the Chathams, is a specialty at Hotel Chatham. Depending on what's just been caught, you'll have the opportunity to try local seafood delicacies including crayfish, hapuku or groper, blue cod and paua. And if seafood isn’t your thing, there are plenty of menu choices too. As well as New Zealand wines and brews, Hotel Chatham is the only place you’ll enjoy the local craft beer Breezy Brew lager with a hint of Toni's Chatham Island wild honey.

Pitt Island Excursion (450.00 NZD)

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. Please note this trip is not guaranteed due to weather and conditions out of our control. If the trip does not proceed you will be refunded.

Inclusions



• Return air travel on Air Chathams
• Seven night’s accommodation
• All meals including continental breakfast / picnic lunches / buffet dinners
• All sightseeing and entry fees as per itinerary
• A 90 page ‘Discover the Chatham Islands’ booklet and map on arrival

Exclusions



• Cost of travel to/from Chch/Wellington airport
• Travel Insurance
• Personal purchases - drinks with meals/souvenirs etc.
8 Days from
$4,989 NZD pp

Highlights

• Enjoy the history, culture, geology, flora and fauna of the island

• Learn about the unique Chatham Islands birds and plants

• Explore the basalt columns of Ohira Bay

• An optional excursion to visit Pitt Island, exploring the islands nature reserves

• Learn about the Moriori people and visit the Moriori Kopinga Marae

or call us on

NZ Freephone
0800 945 3327

AUS Freephone
1800 107 715

to help you make your reservation

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