After a 2.25-hour flight, we arrive on the Chatham Islands (which is 45 minutes ahead of standard NZ time). Upon arrival, we’re warmly welcomed by our hosts, Greg and Rosemarie Horler, and transferred to Awarakau Lodge, a charming retreat nestled on a 1,300-acre working sheep and cattle farm, just 8km south of Waitangi. Set mere meters from the rugged coastline, the lodge offers stunning sea views and tranquil surroundings. The afternoon is yours to relax—settle into your well-appointed room with ensuite bathroom, take in the coastal vistas from the immaculately kept lawns, or enjoy a gentle walk along the rocky shoreline, exploring the myriad of life in the rock pools. In the evening, we gather in the dining room, often humming with conversation about the day's activities, to savor a delicious home-cooked meal prepared by our hosts.

Today we explore the northeast of the island. Our first stop is the Ocean Mail Scenic Reserve, where we enjoy a picnic lunch followed by a walk through the DOC reserve to learn about wetland regeneration. We then visit Hapupu National Historic Reserve, home to the Dendroglyphs—remarkable Moriori tree carvings. Next, we travel to Skirmish Bay, the site of the first European landing in 1791, and visit the remains of early missionary and whaling settlements. Our final stop of the day is the seal colony at Port Munning, the only accessible one on the island. In the evening, we return to the lodge for another delicious meal.

Today we travel to the North West of the Island to the fishing village of Port Hutt. On the way, we stop to view the five sided Basalt Columns (one of only two sites in the world). Continuing on, we visit the Moravian Missionaries stone cottage at Maunganui, this was built around 1866 by German missionaries. From here we travel to Waitangi West beach, which is the most westerly point on the Island before making our way back to the lodge.Today we travel to the North West of the Island to the fishing village of Port Hutt. On the way, we stop to view the five sided Basalt Columns (one of only two sites in the world). Continuing on, we visit the Moravian Missionaries stone cottage at Maunganui, this was built around 1866 by German missionaries. From here we travel to Waitangi West beach, which is the most westerly point on the Island before making our way back to the lodge.

After breakfast, we travel south to the beautiful Awatotara Bush Coastal Track. This enchanting trail weaves through native forest rich with birdlife—including parea, tui, and red-crowned parakeets—and leads to dramatic coastal views. 

Next, we head to Henga Farm for a walk through regenerating kopi forests and sandy dunes, ending at the peaceful Long Beach. Our day concludes at the vibrant Admiral Gardens—a colourful haven cultivated to support native birds, bees, and butterflies.

 After breakfast we travel East. First we visit Kopinga Marae (meaning ‘Grove of Kopi Trees’ where Moriori would often hold large gatherings) for morning tea and an informative talk on the history of this special place. We then travel onwards to Owenga to view the statue of Tommy Solomon, the last full blooded Moriori. Then in the afternoon we visit the museum and wander take a wander around the town.

Today is yours to enjoy as you please! Choose an optional 4WD adventure to Pitt Island (minimum numbers required), or simply relax at the lodge. You might also explore the local museum, craft shop, or other interesting spots around Waitangi Township.

Today we travel North. The north of Chatham Islands is where spread white sand beaches are offset by aquamarine waters. First we stop to visit Te Whanga lagoon which fills the Chatham Island torso, home to hundreds of black swans. Here, you can find fossilised shark teeth at Blind Jim’s Beach. We also visit the Nikau Bush Conservation Area - an area that contains 19 hectares of lowland broadleaved forest and since it was fenced, regeneration has been prolific. Aftwerwards we head out to Cape Young which is home to Wharekauri station, this literally means “kauri house” and was first used in the 1830s as the name of the Moriori coastal village where some Maori living with Moriori at the time built a house from kauri timber salvaged from the beach. From here we can also check out Splattered Rock - an interesting volcanic rock formation. 

After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for our return flight to Auckland. Upon arrival, a shuttle will be waiting to take you home—bringing an end to your unforgettable Chatham Islands adventure.