Eco-tourism

The main tourism attractions are based on the Islands' unique natural environment evolved over millions of years of geographical isolation. Formed from ancient Pacific volcanoes, the Chathams are home to many rare bird and plant species. Conservation programmes are progressively restoring the original forest cover and animal life including the natural habitats of the very rare Chatham Island black robin and taiko.

The wildlife of the Chathams is of particular interest because of the number and variety of birds found there. Once a major Pacific rookery, the Islands are home to 18 unique species as well as numerous ocean and coastal dwelling birds.

The Chathams provide spectacular and ever changing scenery. The often rugged Island landscape contains an astonishing array of volcanic peaks, original forest remnants, rolling farmland, numerous lakes, sandy beaches and rocky shores with the ever-present Pacific Ocean as a backdrop.

Most of the Chatham Islands is privately owned. Access to many areas is by permission of the owners. In addition, the Islands contain a number of sensitive and protected environmental areas. Your host will make these arrangements, and guided eco-tours of the Islands are available in many forms through accommodation providers or direct with tour operators.

History

The Chathams were the last major Pacific Islands to be settled by humans between 800 and 1000 years ago. The Islands are the ancestral home of the Moriori - Polynesian people who share similar roots to the New Zealand Maori but who developed a distinctive culture, including the practice of pacifism, in their undisturbed isolation.

European "discovery" and settlement began in 1791 with whaling and sealing. New Zealand Maori settlement soon followed. The Islands' recent history is as tempestuous as the surrounding bountiful sea which first attracted the new settlers.

The majority of key historic sites are accessible to the visitor and include:

• early Moriori settlement sites and middens
• rare examples of Moriori tree and rock carvings (dendroglyphs and petroglyphs)
• memorial to Tommy Solomon, the last full blood Moriori
• early European settlement by German missionaries and English pastoralists
• remnants of whaling and sealing stations
• sites of original Maori settlement.

People

The present people of the Chathams reflect the rich history and natural environment of these distinctive Pacific Islands. Fiercely independent, strongly bound by common bloodlines, the small Chatham Island community shares the old fashioned habits of personal care and hospitality towards visitors to their cherished shores. With the 'host system' operating you will become part of the Island family as soon as you arrive.

Seafood/Fishing

The Chathams are renowned for fishing and seafood. Fishing and fish processing is an economic mainstay of the Islands. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of seafood and fresh water delicacies including lobster, paua, scallops, kina, groper, cod, flounder and eel. Fresh fish is a standard item on Island menus.

Waters for diving are exceptionally clear.

Guided fishing trips are available both through accommodation providers and direct from fishing tour operators.

Tours and Sightseeing

Under the 'host system' Islanders will help you get the most out of your stay. Once you arrive you can arrange all sorts of tours and sightseeing trips, as well as activities such as fishing, bird watching, walks and so on. Your accommodation host will be able to help you.

Where to stay on the Chatham Islands

Getting on in the Chathams

How to get to the Chatham Islands

See if you're ready to experience the Chathams