Chatham Islands

The Chatham Islands are an isolated archipelago in the South Pacific administered by New Zealand and located roughly 800 kilometres east of the South Island. The group is remote, sparsely populated and has a distinct cultural history including Moriori and Māori communities.

The islands’ attractions are remoteness, birdlife and a mostly unmodified coastal landscape with cliffs, sheltered bays and beaches. Human settlements are concentrated on the largest islands, with limited services and a reliance on local fishing and tourism.

European contact began in the late 18th century and the islands have a layered history of indigenous settlement, colonisation and conservation efforts. In modern times the focus has been on sustaining small communities and protecting endemic flora and fauna.

Geographically the archipelago sits in the South Pacific well east of mainland New Zealand, with the two principal inhabited islands being the main base for local administration and travel connections.

• Distance and access: The islands lie about 800 kilometres east of New Zealand's South Island and are served by scheduled flights from New Zealand, with limited local services on the islands.
• Conservation note: The islands are important for conservation and host several endemic species; one noted recovery is the near-extinction and subsequent recovery of the Chatham black robin.

What to See #

• Chatham Island: The largest island in the group, home to the main settlement and most of the human population; it contains varied coastal habitats and cultural sites.
• Pitt Island: A smaller inhabited island to the south with rugged coastline and limited infrastructure, accessible by local boats and small aircraft.