The Chatham Islands are an archipelago located approximately 800km off the east coast of New Zealand’s southern islands. They consist of ten islands of which two of the largest are Chatham and Pitt. The islands comprise the easternmost point of New Zealand.
Initially populated by groups of Polynesian navigators, they are presumed to be descendants of a Maori population from New Zealand, but other theories suggest an ancestry from Polynesian populations from other islands located further north. In any case, the isolation led to the formation of an identity of its own, and the original inhabitants identify themselves as Moriori. Before contact with the Europeans, they formed a traditional and peaceful society estimated at around 2,000 inhabitants.
The islands are hilly. The vegetation includes local plants, including macrocarpa trees. The highest point is at 286 meters on Mangere Island. Chatham Island has several lakes and lagoons, including the largest Te Whanga Lagoon and some waterways.
The Waitangi Bay Beach Bay walk is a short 2 hour walk but worth every minute due to the beautiful scenery and coastal walk. The walk starts from the beach and takes you to the red cliff and you see many fish cultures along the way.
The Ocean Reserve located in the islands is home to many walks.
Pitt Island is also home to some flora and fauna tours as the island is home to around 21 endemic species and is a nature lover’s paradise
Source: Wikipedia new-zealand-visa.co.nz |