The Chathams are made up of 10 islands situated 870 miles east of New Zealand and are 45 minutes ahead of the mainland..The two largest and only inhabited islands are Chatham (90,000ha) and Pitt (6200ha) with the others being sensitive protected environmental areas.
Visitors enjoy the island as is trees that lean one way, rugged landscapes containing an array of volcanic peaks, original forest remnants, rolling farmland, sandy beaches, seas full of fish and spectacular ever-changing scenery.
With the Black Robin now thriving on the outer islands (once the worlds rarest bird), the magnificent Chatham Islands Forget-Me-Nots, superb hospitality, meals and opportunity to fish for cod and grouper and tramping - this is a place to visit before you die!
Total population is around 600 with the largest settlements being Waitangi and Owenga.
Clothing
Casual clothing is recommended. The climate is temperate although exposed, so layers are recommended, along with a warm water-proof jacket. Be prepared for four seasons in one day!
Comfortable walking shoes are adequate for the daily walks and sightseeing
General
Mobile phones do NOT have contact with the mainland
EFTPOS and credit card facilities are available
There is a four-bed hospital on the island and a resident doctor on duty
Baggage allowance is 20k
Sunscreen and insect repellent are recommended
Internet is available at the Hotel albeit intermittent
Church - There is a local church service on Sunday and visitors are welcome
Please note: There is no public transport on the island
Fishing
Shore fishing can be done at no extra cost bring your own gear
The included fishing trip is suitable for 10 persons at a time for approximately three hours
Cod and groper can be plentiful (quotas similar to the mainland apply and must be adhered to)
A pair of gloves are recommended (gardening ones are ok)
Fishing equipment is supplied
Fish caught, will firstly be used by the hotel so everyone has the opportunity to sample the local fish even though some people do not go fishing. Excess fish not used by the hotel can be packaged up to take home). The hotel specialises in local seafood meals
Fish can also be bought on the island at excellent prices. Blue Cod, Groper (Hapuka), Tarakihi, Blue Nose, Trumpeter and Crayfish can all be bought for the freezer (subject to availability)
Snorkelling/Diving
Snorkelling can be done in the Chathams bring your own gear including a wetsuit
Diving trips can also be organised at an extra charge weight belts and tanks are available for hire
Overall Impression
This is a soft adventure holiday. The fascinating appeal of the Chatham Islands is the ruggedness, the friendliness of the locals and the general beauty of A LAND APART Remember to be open-minded and flexible and never mind the weather!