The chatham islands 2021/22 wild earth travel - Discover the birds, plants & people of the Chatham Islands
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2021/22 wild earth travel the chatham islands Discover the birds, plants & people of the Chatham Islands
Why Wild Earth Travel?
Our journeys, whether land or cruise, are all about the most important element - where you are going. Due to current
times people are looking for meaningful journeys within our own backyard. We believe in finding our travellers those
experiences in the far reaches of Aotearoa | New Zealand, including the Chatham Islands, the Sub Antarctic Islands, the
isolated areas of Fiordland or navigating them through the Ross Sea to Antarctica.
Image credit: O Liodden
Discover the Itinerary Highlights
Chatham Islands... KAINGAROA & TE WHANGA LAGOON
Here the coastline is a mixture of sweeping white sand beaches
Reserve is an excellent opportunity to see a great example of
community lead conservation making a real difference as the forest
The Chatham Islands are New Zealand’s eastern most interrupted only by occasional headlands where both Chatham and regenerates and birdlife flourishes, be on the lookout for the endemic
Pitt Islands Shags are often seen as well as Fur Seals breeding on the Chatham Island Pigeon, Tomtit, Fantail and Warbler.
outpost, and the first place in the world to welcome the
rocks below. You will see some of the best examples of the Chatham’s
new day. These islands are a treasure trove of endemic unique coastal vegetation plus Kaingaroa is historically important as OWENGA FISHING VILLAGE
plants and animals that have evolved in isolation and one of the first areas settled by Europeans. The fishing village of Owenga is where you will be able to see the
make the Chatham Islands one of New Zealand’s most statue commemorating Tommy Solomon, the last full blooded
biologically important regions. HAPUPU RESERVE Moriori. Standing atop the Rangaiki Cliffs with their 250m high sheer
Enjoy the privilege of visiting the Hapupu Reserve where the Kopi drop to the sea below there are amazing views on a clear day to Pitt
The islands were originally colonized by the Moriori people trees still bear the enigmatic engravings of the Moriori. and Mangere Islands. The Kopinga Marae is an expression of Moriori
who created a unique lifestyle on the islands while living spirituality and culture and an opportunity for you to learn about
in isolation from the outside world living on the abundant WAITANGI WEST, MAUNGANUI & OHIRA BAY the history of the first inhabitants of the Chatham Islands (known to
In the North West of the Chatham’s there are extensive farms, fern Moriori as Rekohu).
natural resources of the sea and land. Later European and
lands and striking volcanic cones. Travelling to the road’s end at
Maori arrivals brought their own history and traditions which Waitangi West we find sweeping white sand beaches and there is THE WILD SIDE EXCLUSIVE:
have melded together to create the culture of the Chatham the opportunity to look for the endemic Oyster Catcher. On the lower THE OUTER ISLANDS
Islands. Today many locals are descended from Moriori slopes of Maunganui visit the stone cottage, built entirely of local Board a boat and explore the outer islands in the South East of the
genealogy, a culture that you can discover during your stay. materials including mortar made from burnt pipi shells in about 1870. Chathams, and the incredibly rich waters that surround the islands.
At Ohira Bay explore the massive columnar basalt columns that are There will be the opportunity for spotting some of the endemic
The Chatham Islands lie at the eastern extremity of the nearly 80 million years old. seabirds including Chatham Albatross, Buller’s Albatross, Northern
Chatham Rise and were formed by a combination of volcanic Royal Albatross, Petrels, Prions and Shearwaters that all breed locally.
activity and uplift of the underlying basement rocks to create PITT ISLAND (ADDITIONAL EXCURSION) Adjacent to Pitt Island are two of the most significant islands in New
Fly to Pitt Island, the second largest Island in the Chatham’s and the Zealand conservation and we plan to sail close by both SE Island
the low lying rolling landscape of the main island while the
only other inhabited island, with a population of just 45. Spend a and Mangere. These islands are central to the survival story of the
outlying smaller islands are the remains of individual volcanic day on Pitt Island, exploring the islands nature reserves, visiting Mt Chatham Island Black Robin and provide a refuge for a number of
events. The fauna and flora of the Chatham’s has strong Hakepa and enjoying lunch at the Flower Pott Lodge. other critically endangered birds including New Zealand Shore Plover
affinities to the main islands of New Zealand but through and Forbes Parakeet.
isolation many species have evolved to the local climate THE SOUTH COAST
becoming unique. The oceanic climate ensures a wide The south coast of the Chatham Island is completely different to NOTE:
diversity of species are able to flourish while the ocean brings the rest of the island, rising to higher elevations and still retaining These are just some of the places that you will explore and visit. Every
its own unique abundance of sea life. significant areas of vegetation that thrives in the thick peat that trip may differ due to weather or factors out of control.
blankets the landscape.
Our itineraries are designed from our long experience of
AWATOTARA RESERVE
travelling and working in these remarkable islands to give The enigmatic Taiko or Magenta Petrel was rediscovered breeding
you the opportunity to experience all the islands have to offer. in the remote forests along the south coast and is now intensively
managed to ensure its ongoing survival. A visit to the Awatotara
Chatham Islands: The Best Of Chatham Islands: People and Plants
Discover the Chatham Islands, the unique botanical nature, the many endemic plant species and meet the locals
This itinerary will showcase the best of the island visiting the northern, eastern, southern and western corners plus
who call these islands their home. Visit the Henga Scenic Reserve and Nursery, walk through regenerative coastal
a day trip to Pitt Island. Listen to the locals sharing their stories, learn about the islands history and discover unique
forest, learn about the sand dune vegetation and explore a Nikau Reserve that conserves a broadleaf forest and
flora and fauna. This itinerary will give you a taste of everything the island has to offer.
fine stand of endemic Nikau Palms.
Discover
Discover
The Four Corners of the
The Endemic plants
8 DAYS, 7 NIGHTS Chatham Islands 8 DAYS, 7 NIGHTS
TRAVEL STYLE: Guided Land Journey TRAVEL STYLE: Guided Land Journey
PRICE FROM: NZ$5,125 PP PRICE FROM: NZ$5,125 PP
TRIP DATES: EX Wellington: 5 - 12 November, 2021 EX Christchurch: 8 - 15 February, 2022 | 15 - 22 March, 2022 TRIP DATES: EX Christchurch: 26 October - 2 November, 2021
HIGHLIGHTS: HIGHLIGHTS:
Kaingaroa Kaingaroa
Maunganui > Enjoy the history, culture, geology, flora and fauna of the island Maunganui > Enjoy the history, culture, geology, flora and fauna of the island
> Learn about the unique Chatham Islands flora and fauna > Be amongst the first in the world to see the sun
Ohira Bay Ohira Bay
Henga Scenic Reserve > Explore the basalt columns of Ohira Bay Henga Scenic Reserve > Learn about the unique Chatham Islands birds and plants
Waitangi > Learn about the Moriori people and visit the Moriori Kopinga Marae Waitangi > Focus on the unique botanical nature of the islands and visit the Henga Scenic Reserve and Nursery
Chatham Island > Visit the stone cottage at Maunganui Bay Chatham Island > Explore the basalt columns of Ohira Bay
Owenga Owenga
> Learn about the Moriori people and visit the Moriori Kopinga Marae
Pitt Island & Pitt Island &
South East Islands South East Islands
ITINERARY: ITINERARY:
DAY 1: FLY TO CHATHAM ISLANDS DAY 1: FLY TO CHATHAM ISLANDS
DAY 2: DISCOVER KAINGAROA, NORTH EAST OF ISLAND DAY 2: KAINGAROA, NORTH EAST OF ISLAND
DAY 3: VISIT THE HENGA SCENIC RESERVE AND NURSERY DAY 3: VISIT THE HENGA SCENIC RESERVE AND NURSERY
DAY 4: VISIT FARMS IN THE NORTH WEST, VISIT MAUNGANUI AND THE STONE COTTAGE DAY 4: VISIT THE NORTH WEST - FARMLAND, MAUNGANUI AND THE HISTORIC STONE COTTAGE
DAY 5: FLY TO PITT ISLAND FOR THE DAY: (OPTIONAL EXCURSION - NOT INCLUDED IN YOUR COST) DAY 5: FLY TO PITT ISLAND: (OPTIONAL EXCURSION - NOT INCLUDED IN YOUR COST)
DAY 6: DISCOVER THE SOUTH COAST DAY 6: DISCOVER THE SOUTH COAST
DAY 7: VISIT THE HISTORIC OWENGA FISHING VILLAGE DAY 7: OWENGA: DISCOVER THE ISLANDS HISTORY AND CULTURE
DAY 8: RETURN HOME FROM THE CHATHAM ISLANDS DAY 8: RETURN HOME FROM THE CHATHAM ISLANDS
*Itinerary may change without warning *Itinerary may change without warning
Chatham Islands: The Wild Side Additional Information:
This is one of our most comprehensive Chatham Island itineraries, taking you to the remote corners to discover many
of the unique bird species that call the Chatham Islands home. Enjoy a boat trip to watch the birdlife that spends its
Your Accommodation YOUR TOUR INCLUSIONS
We have several accommodation options on the Island. Where you stay will vary
time at sea, and sail close by SE Island and Mangere Island. Also stay a night at the Taiko Camp watching the Chatham
dependent on your tour date.
& EXCLUSIONS:
Island Taiko.
INCLUSIONS
> Return air travel on Air Chathams
> Seven nights accommodation
> All meals including continental
breakfast / picnic lunches / buffet
dinners
> All sightseeing, activities and entry
HOTEL CHATHAM: FORGET ME NOT SUITES: fees as per your selected itinerary.
This is the largest accommodation on the This is some of the most exclusive > Full day Pitt Island tour including
island and is located in the heart of Waitangi accommodation on the island, these nine new flights and lunch
overlooking the bay. It includes the Chatham suites were opened in 2020.Spacious and > A 90 page ‘Discover the Chatham
Island’s only bar and restaurant. There are 20 luxurious with kitchen, ensuite and private Islands’ booklet and map on arrival
rooms from executive suites to single rooms. veranda overlooking Waitangi Bay.
Double/twin rooms have sea views. EXCLUSIONS
> Cost of travel to/from Christchurch
airport
> Travel Insurance
> Personal purchases - drinks with
meals/souvenirs etc.
> Pitt Island day trip: NZ$450 pp
Please note: All itineraries
are different and include different
tours, activities and
TRAVELLERS REST: CHATHAM RISE MOTEL: accommodation. For more
An historical villa located in the heart of Ideal for independent travellers, small groups information please contact Wild
Your booking helps support Earth Travel or your Travel
Waitangi, adjoining Waitangi Store, it includes and visiting workers. One large five-double
The Taiko Camp representative.
three large traditional rooms and two self- bedroom house, one two-double bedroom
8 DAYS, 7 NIGHTS and two self-contained double units.
contained units. A large shared lounge and
TRAVEL STYLE: Guided Land Journey Pitt Island excursion is dependent
traditional porch with sea views complete the on external factors including
PRICE FROM: NZ$7,175 PP experience. weather and is not guaranteed, a
TRIP DATES: EX Christchurch: 4 - 11 January, 2022 EX Wellington: 14 - 21 January, 2022 refund will be issued if it does not go
Meet Your Chatham Island Guides ahead.
HIGHLIGHTS: MIKE BELL: ORNITHOLOGIST LOIS CROON: PLANTS & CULTURE
Kaingaroa Mike Bell has had a lifelong interest in birds Lois Croon has both Maori and Moriori Mike Bell
Maunganui > Enjoy the history, culture, geology, flora and fauna of the islands and wildlife conservation and has developed descendance and has lived in the Chatham
> Spend a full day exploring the outer islands of the Chathams from the water including SE Island and Mangere this into a career in avian conservation and Islands for nearly fifty years. Married with
Ohira Bay
research, with a BSc in ecology and over four adult children, she considers herself a
Henga Scenic Reserve > Travel with Mike Bell, one of the foremost experts on the Chatham Islands birdlife twenty years of practical experience he has a privileged woman who has all children living
Waitangi > Visit the Taiko Camp watching for Chatham Island Taiko wide skill set and many great stories. on the Island.
Chatham Island > Learn about the unique Chatham Islands birds and plants He has worked throughout New Zealand Lois Croon and her husband Val live on 200
Owenga
> Explore the basalt columns of Ohira Bay
but especially in the Chatham Islands. His acres of whanau land. Over time they have
company, Wildlife Management International, created the Admiral Garden which is open
Pitt Island & > Visit Pitt Island, exploring the islands nature reserves is involved in a number of research and to the public, plus they have created two
South East Islands Lois Croon
conservation projects throughout New reserves where they rehabilitate habitats for
> Learn about the Moriori people and visit the Moriori Kopinga Marae
Zealand including endangered bird research, birds and the native butterfly. Lois says her
monitoring and management; predator true passion is plants, she grows trees not
eradication and control; bird capture, banding only for the whanau land and reserves but
and tracking; and project management. also several restoration projects one being
ITINERARY:
a Kowhai restoration in a small reserve and
DAY 1: CHRISTCHURCH TO CHATHAM ISLANDS Mike is dedicated to community based another in the township in Waitangi. She
DAY 2: KAINGAROA, NORTH EAST OF ISLAND conservation and is committed to helping was working on a dune restoration but sadly
DAY 3: VISIT THE SOUTH EAST OUTER ISLANDS TO ENJOY THE BIRD LIFE AT SEA provide local communities with the skills cyclone Pam took out many metres of dune
DAY 4: VISIT FARMS IN THE NORTH WEST, VISIT MAUNGANUI AND THE STONE COTTAGE and resources needed to achieve positive and she lost her plantings of Chatham Island
DAY 5: FLY TO PITT ISLAND outcomes for species and habitats. His Forget-me-not, Fincinia Spiralis (Pingio) and
DAY 6: DISCOVER THE SOUTH COAST, VISIT THE AWATOTARA RESERVE & CHATHAM ISLAND TAIKO TRUST involvement with the Chatham Islands has Embergenia Grandifoliiaia (sow thistle). Due Please note: Guides will vary dependent
DAY 7: OWENGA FISHING VILLAGE spanned numerous projects but in recent to the volatile seas it has not been replanted. on trip, Mike Bell and Lois Croon are two of
DAY 8: RETURN TO CHRISTCHURCH years he has been closely involved with the She says she has an understanding of the several guides we have for Chatham Island
Taiko Trust which has worked within the Tuku loss of Chatham Islands natural habitat due to trips and may not be leading your chosen
*Itinerary may change without warning Reserve on the conservation of the critically the pests and what the local community has trip.
endangered Chatham Island Taiko. to face to make the changes to rehabilitate.
Enquire with Wild Earth Travel for more information: PH: 0800 945 3327 | 03 365 1355 Email: info@wildearth-travel.com
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