The Chatham Islands archipelago is located over 800 kilometres east of New Zealand and the only Antipodean Islands south of Australia and New Zealand to have permanent human settlement.
The Chatham Islands archipelago consists of one large island and numerous smaller islands and rocky islets, with only two of the islands inhabited. These islands represent New Zealand’s most easterly territory. The islands have recently undergone a conservation programme thanks to the increasing awareness and willingness of the new generation. People are now working towards conserving the remaining species of endemic birds and several private reserves have been established, with replanting and predator control efforts underway. Fortunately, a small number of endemic bird species have survived on the offshore islands.
The most famous bird species are the Magenta petrel and the black robin. Other endemic species include the Chatham Island oystercatcher, the grey warbler, the Chatham Islands pigeon, the Chatham Islands snipe, and the shore plover. Many seabird species are still quite common including Buller’s mollymawk, prions, skuas, sooty shearwaters, storm-petrels and little (blue) penguins.
The Subantarctic Islands are tiny sanctuaries for some of the most abundant and unique wildlife on the planet. This epic expedition provides a rare opportunity to discover these wild islands, perfect for pelagic enthusiasts, penguin fanatics, and those interested in island endemics. Find out more about Birding Expedition Down Under
