Chatham Islands

Introducing Chatham Islands

Named Rekohu (Misty Sun) by the Moriori, the Chathams are found in the South Pacific Ocean, 850km due east of Christchurch. This remote group of 10 islands lays claim to the first human habitation over the international dateline. Apart from the 50 or so people on Pitt Island, only Chatham Island is significantly populated.

The islands’ geographical contrasts are striking: rugged coastlines and towering cliffs, volcanic peaks, lagoons and peat bogs, sweeping beaches, isolated farms and dense patches of forest. The main industry besides farming and tourism (particularly ecotourism) is crayfish processing, and there are plants at Waitangi, Kaingaroa, Owenga and Port Hutt. These four towns have strong communities and a sleepy, rustic charm.

Last updated: Mar 2, 2009