Chatham Islands Islands

Address: Chatham Islands / Rekohu, New Zealand

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.

The Chatham Islands are reached almost exclusively by air. Scheduled flights operate to the Chatham Islands’ airport (Tuuta/Chatham Islands Airport) from New Zealand’s mainland-most regularly from Christchurch-operated by Air Chathams.

There is very limited sea passenger service; if arriving by air, you’ll land on Chatham Island and drive or take local transport to island settlements (distances on the main island are short). Check the airline’s schedule in advance as services are infrequent.

• Most international visitors arrive at the main settlement of Waitangi on Chatham Island; check Air Chathams schedules and book flights well in advance because services are infrequent and subject to weather.
• Summer (December-February) gives the most reliable weather and access for inter‑island transfers and outdoor activities; outside summer, services and visitor facilities are more limited-confirm transport and opening times before you go.
• Don't miss local cultural sites and natural history on the smaller islands-arrange local guides or community tours through Waitangi to see Moriori cultural sites, unique birdlife and Pitt Island's landscapes that many day visitors skip.