Information for your Chatham Island adventure
Far from the well-trodden paths of mainland New Zealand lies the Chatham Islands — an archipelago of eleven islands scattered across the vast Pacific Ocean, some 800 kilometres east of the South Island. Known as Rēkohu (Misty Skies) to its first inhabitants, the Moriori, and later as Wharekauri to Māori, this is a place shaped by isolation, resilience and the enduring spirit of its people.
More than just a destination, the Chathams offer a true sense of escape — a journey back to a slower, simpler way of life. Here, time quite literally shifts, with the islands operating on their own unique time zone, 45 minutes ahead of mainland New Zealand.
Expect dramatic coastlines, windswept landscapes, rare and remarkable wildlife, and a deeply layered cultural history that unfolds with every step. This is a place where nature leads, stories run deep and every experience feels genuine and unfiltered.
If you’re seeking an adventure that truly takes you away from it all, the Chatham Islands promise something rare — an experience that is beautifully rugged, authentically raw and unlike anywhere else.
A Land Shaped by Isolation and Time
The islands’ volcanic origins are etched into every cliff face and dramatic rock formation. This is a landscape carved by the relentless forces of the Southern Ocean, resulting in windswept peat domes, towering basalt columns, and stunning, wild coastlines. The sense of isolation here is palpable; it’s a place to disconnect from the noise of modern life and reconnect with the raw, untamed beauty of nature. For travellers seeking an authentic escape, the feeling of being truly off the beaten path begins the moment you arrive
The Rich Moriori and Māori Heritage
To understand the Chatham Islands is to appreciate their deep human history. The Moriori, a peaceful and resilient people, were the first to settle these shores, developing a unique culture centered on a covenant of peace. Their story is preserved in the land, most notably in the ancient Kopi tree carvings, or dendroglyphs, found at the Hapupu Historic Reserve. The later arrival of Māori from the mainland added another layer to the islands’ cultural tapestry, creating the intertwined and resilient community that exists today.
Top Experiences: Things to Do and See in the Chatham Islands
So, why make the journey to this remote outpost? People come here to experience pristine, untouched nature and to see wildlife that exists nowhere else on earth. They come to escape the crowds, to enjoy a true digital detox, and to feel the profound peace that only such isolation can bring. Most importantly, visitors come to connect with a rich local culture, to hear the stories of the land from the people who call it home, and to experience a unique and authentic slice of New Zealand heritage.
Discover Unique Flora and Fauna
The islands are a haven for rare and endemic species. Here, you can learn the incredible conservation story of the Chatham Island Black Robin, a bird brought back from the brink of extinction when only one breeding female, ‘Old Blue’, remained. You can also spot other unique birds like the Chatham Island oystercatcher and parea (Chatham Island pigeon). The landscape itself is a botanical treasure, home to the iconic and beautiful Chatham Island Forget-me-not, giant sow thistles, and other megaherbs that flourish in this unique environment
Explore Breathtaking Natural Landmarks
Prepare to be mesmerized by the island’s geological wonders. A walk amongst the hexagonal basalt columns at Ohira Bay feels like stepping onto another planet. A visit to the noisy, bustling seal colony at Point Munning offers a thrilling glimpse into the wild heart of the islands.
For the truly adventurous, a trip to Pitt Island is a must. As one of the first inhabited places in the world to greet the new day’s sun, its windswept beauty and profound sense of remoteness are simply unforgettable.
Connect with History and Culture
History is alive and tangible on the Chathams. You can explore the meticulously restored stone cottage at Maunganui, built in the 1860s from local stone blocks, or visit the remnants from early whaling operations, which later saw the settlement of German missionaries. A guided walk through the Hapupu Historic Reserve to see the Moriori dendroglyphs is a deeply moving experience. And no visit is complete without experiencing true island hospitality, which often involves indulging in world-class, freshly caught seafood-the local blue cod and crayfish (lobster) are legendary for a reason.
Planning Your Trip: A Practical Guide to the Chathams
A journey to the Chatham Islands is an adventure that requires careful and considered planning. Its remoteness is its charm, but it also means that infrastructure is limited. Booking your travel, transport, and accommodation well in advance is absolutely essential to avoid disappointment.
When is the Best Time to Visit?
The islands have a temperate maritime climate, with warm summers and mild winters. However, the weather is famously unpredictable and can change in an instant. The "best" time to visit often depends on your interests; summer (December to February) offers the warmest weather, while other seasons have their own unique appeal for wildlife viewing or seeing specific flora in bloom. No matter when you go, the golden rule is to pack layers and be prepared for all four seasons in a single day.
How to Get to the Chatham Islands
The only way to reach the islands is by air, with flights operated exclusively by Air Chathams.
Regular services depart from Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch on their 68 seater ATR aircraft.
It’s crucial to understand that these flights are often booked out months, sometimes even a year, in advance. Planning ahead is not just recommended; it’s a necessity.
Where to Stay and Getting Around
Accommodation on the islands is charming but scarce, consisting of an hotel, lodges, and private homestays. Similarly, the number of rental vehicles is extremely limited, and the roads-many of which are unsealed-can be challenging for inexperienced drivers. Furthermore, access to many of the most significant historical sites and natural landmarks requires permission from landowners and the guidance of a local expert who understands the protocols and conditions.
How many days do you need to see the Chatham Islands?
To truly appreciate the main island and potentially visit Pitt Island, we recommend a minimum of 5 to 8 days. This allows for a relaxed pace and provides a buffer for potential weather disruptions, ensuring you can experience all the key highlights without being rushed.
Is there mobile phone reception and internet on the islands?
Mobile coverage is good in key areas of the island, particularly around the main settlement of Waitangi. However, there are parts of the island where there is no coverage at all. Wi-Fi is available at most accommodation providers, with many now using Starlink, although speeds can vary. It’s the perfect opportunity to embrace a little digital detox and truly disconnect.
What should I pack for a trip to the Chatham Islands?
There is no pharmacy on the island, so please ensure you bring an ample supply of any personal medication, including extras in case of delays. The Chatham Islands have a small hospital with a dedicated medical team; however, any conditions that cannot be managed locally require transfer by air ambulance to Christchurch.
Pack for all seasons — the weather can change quickly. Essential items include warm layers, a reliable waterproof and windproof jacket, sturdy walking shoes or boots, a sunhat, sunscreen, and your personal medications. Binoculars are also highly recommended for wildlife viewing.
Do I need to bring cash with me?
No — it’s not necessary to bring large amounts of cash with you. The island has two EFTPOS machines, and most businesses accept credit cards.
If you do require cash during your stay, you can withdraw funds from one of the two EFTPOS machines available on the island.
Can I self drive around the island?
Yes you can drive around the island, many of the attractions are on private land require a per person fee to be paid along with Department of Conservation concession fees.
Many locations aren't signposted as well as having to drive across farmland following markers or farm tracks.
We recommend you contact us - we can book your flights and accommodation as well as arranging a guide who can provide a commentary.
How far in advance should I book my trip?
As far as possible! Due to the limited number of flights and accommodation options, we recommend booking at least 6 to 12 months in advance, especially if you plan to travel during the peak summer season.
Is Pitt Island worth visiting?
Absolutely. A visit to Pitt Island is a highlight for many travellers, offering a true sense of isolation, stunning landscapes and a fascinating glimpse into life on one of the world’s most remote inhabited islands.
Accessible by scenic flight or boat, these experiences are typically weather dependent and best organised as part of your overall itinerary. You can choose to enjoy Pitt Island as a memorable day trip, or extend your stay with a 2 or 3-night experience for a deeper connection to this extraordinary location.
Whether you’re visiting for the day or staying longer, Pitt Island delivers an experience that is both unique and unforgettable. Simply ask us to include this as part of your journey, and we’ll tailor the experience and provide a quote to suit your itinerary.
What is the Weather Like?
A Summer has lovely clear, warm days while winter may bring occasional mild frosts, but the Chatham Island weather may be best described as variable.
Most days see the sun and temperatures tend to be mild. It can be windy and cold at times.
Annual rainfall is about 1,000mm but tends to fall as showers rather than torrential rain in southerly air-streams, but occasional heavy rain is associated with warm northerlies.
Daily temperature ranges in the Chatham Islands are smaller than those in mainland New Zealand due to the small land mass of the islands and the moderating influence of winds and the sea.
The Chatham Islands do not experience extreme temperatures to the same extent as most mainland New Zealand region.
The Chatham Islands have about 4 days per year when the temperature falls below 0°C, and the temperature very seldom reaches above 25°C.
Is there public transport on Chatham Island?
There is no public transport system on the Chatham Islands, and there are no taxis or ride-share services available.
When you book your tour with Travel With Lesley Whyte, all airport transfers and scheduled transport throughout your stay are arranged for you, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience from arrival to departure.
Do I need Domestic Travel Insurance?
We strongly recommend purchasing domestic travel insurance for your Chatham Islands journey. While flight disruptions are uncommon, the island’s remote location means that weather-related delays can occasionally occur. In the unlikely event of a delay, any additional accommodation, meals, or incidental expenses are at your own cost — travel insurance can provide valuable protection and peace of mind in these situations.
If you hold private health insurance, please check your policy’s fine print before travelling. Some insurers require notification if you are visiting the Chatham Islands due to its remote location. Taking a few moments to confirm your coverage ensures you’re fully protected for your trip.
Which airports do Air Chathams depart from?
Air Chathams departs from Auckland, Wellington & Christchurch.
Auckland - Saturday & Sunday Wellington - Monday & Thursday Christchurch - Tuesday
During the summer season, Air Chathams quite often put on additional flights
What are the recreational fishing catch limits?
To help protect the unique marine environment of the Chatham Islands, recreational fishing limits apply. Current daily catch limits are:
Species - Daily Limit (per person)
Blue cod 5
Hapuku 2
Pāua 5
Rock lobster 2
Kina 10
Accumulation limits apply at the daily limit only — this means you may not accumulate catch over multiple days.
Regulations can change, so we recommend checking the latest MPI (Fisheries New Zealand) guidelines prior to travel to ensure compliance.
Visitors who prefer not to fish can purchase locally caught seafood directly from Chatham Islands fish processing facilities, subject to availability.
🐝 Biosecurity – Protecting Chatham Islands Bees
The Chatham Islands are incredibly proud of their bee population — and for good reason.
Chatham Islands bees are 100% free of bee diseases and pests, including varroa mite. This disease-free status is rare and extremely valuable, both environmentally and economically.
Protecting this status is a top priority.
What You Can Not Bring With You
The following items must not be brought to the Chatham Islands under any circumstances:
* Raw or unprocessed honey
* Live bees (including queen bees or bee packages)
* Used beekeeping suits, jackets or veils * Gloves, hive tools or smokers
* Bee boxes, frames or hive components * Any beekeeping equipment that has been previously used
* Clothing or gear that has been in contact with bees
Even tiny traces of wax, pollen, propolis or spores can introduce harmful pests or diseases.
If You Are a Beekeeper
If you are a beekeeper or have recently visited hives (in NZ or overseas), please ensure:
* All clothing has been thoroughly washed in hot water
* Footwear is cleaned and disinfected
* Bags are completely free of organic residue
If in doubt — leave it out.
Why This Matters
Introducing varroa mite or other bee diseases would have devastating consequences for local beekeepers, honey production and the wider island ecosystem. The Chathams’ isolation is its greatest protection — and once compromised, it cannot easily be reversed.
Every visitor plays a role in protecting this special, disease-free environment.
Thank you for helping keep Chatham Islands bees healthy and thriving 🐝💛
Chatham Island Map
