8 Days / 7 Nights
Hosted by Awarakau Lodge Owners: Rosemary & Greg Horler
Thank you for your interest in travelling with Chatham Island Adventures & Tours, a proudly New Zealand–owned Travel With Lesley Whyte brand. Our journeys are thoughtfully curated for those who love authentic experiences, meaningful stories, and spectacular landscapes… all delivered in the comfort of a small-group setting.
With exclusive access to private properties, heartfelt hospitality, and deeply rooted local knowledge, you’ll discover a side of the Chathams visitors rarely experience.
DAY 1 — ARRIVE ON THE CHATHAMS
On arrival at Tuuta Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed by your hosts, Greg & Rosemary Horler and transferred to Awarakau Lodge, their coastal haven overlooking the wild South Coast.
Settle into your ensuite room, enjoy the sound of waves rolling in, or stretch your legs along the rocky shoreline before your first home-style dinner.
Meals Included: Dinner & welcome drink
DAY 2 — KAINGAROA, WETLANDS & DENDROGLYPHS
After a wholesome breakfast, we travel north to the remote Kaingaroa region.
Highlights include:
- A relaxing picnic at Ocean Mail Scenic Reserve
- A walk through regenerating wetlands
- Visiting the historic Hapupu Dendroglyphs — ancient Moriori tree carvings
- Exploring Skirmish Bay, the first European landing site (1791)
- A coastal walk to the island’s accessible seal colony
Return to Awarakau Lodge for another delicious three-course dinner.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 3 — PORT HUTT & THE BASALT COLUMNS
Today’s outing takes us northwest to one of the island’s most fascinating regions.
- Wander the impressive Basalt Columns, a phenomenal geological wonder
- Visit Port Hutt — shipwrecks, fishing stories, and history
- Explore the historic stone mission house (circa 1866)
- Enjoy sweeping views along Waitangi West Beach, the westerly edge of the island
Return home for a cosy evening at Awarakau Lodge.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 4 — WAITANGI, MUSEUM, GALLERIES & ADMIRAL GARDENS
Spend the day uncovering the artistic, cultural, and historical heart of Waitangi.
- Visit the Waitangi Museum
- Explore local galleries and unique craft stores
- A scenic wander through the lush and iconic Admiral Gardens
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 5 — MORIORI HERITAGE, OWENGA & HENGA RESERVE
Today is all about stories, culture, and nature.
- Visit Kopinga Marae for an insightful introduction to Moriori history
- See the poignant Tommy Solomon statue in Owenga
- Walk the beautiful Henga Scenic Reserve track
- Return via the inland road with sweeping landscape views
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 6 — FULL DAY PITT ISLAND ADVENTURE
A highlight for many travellers. Board your charter from Owenga and head to the stunning offshore islands.
Depending on sea conditions, activities may include:
- Scenic cruising around Pitt Island
- Birdlife encounters — petrels, albatross, and more
- Fishing opportunities
- A relaxing lunch in a sheltered bay
- A beach landing at Flowerpot Bay
- Seal and seabird spotting throughout the day
NOTE: If weather prevents travel, we offer a wonderful alternative programme featuring birdwatching, museums, galleries, and historic experiences.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 7 — CAPE YOUNG, NIKAU RESERVE & FOSSIL SEARCHING
Your final full day takes you north:
- Stop at Blind Jim’s Creek, where shark-tooth fossils often wash up
- Explore the beautiful Nikau Scenic Reserve
- Visit Wharekauri Station to see the remarkable Splatter Rocks
- Take in panoramic views along the Cape Young coastline
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Farewell Dinner
DAY 8 — FAREWELL TO THE CHATHAMS
After breakfast, you’ll be transferred back to Tuuta Airport to connect with your Air Chathams flight.
With hearts full and new friendships formed, your Chatham Island experience draws to a close.
Meals Included: Breakfast
IMPORTANT NOTES
• Itinerary & weather:
The Chathams are shaped by ever-changing conditions. Your itinerary may be adjusted to maximise your experience and ensure safety. Travelling with a small group allows us the flexibility to adapt and explore the very best of each day.
• Travel Insurance:
Travel insurance is strongly recommended, particularly due to the potential for weather-related delays. Insurance should cover additional accommodation and meal costs should your departure be affected.
Tour Inclusions
- Return Air Chathams flights
- 7 nights at Awarakau Lodge, ensuite rooms
- All meals (breakfast, packed lunch, 3-course dinner)
- Guided vehicle tours
- Woolshed afternoon tea
- Access to private properties and locations not open to the public
- Full-day Pitt Island excursion (weather permitting)
Tour Exclusions
- Pre & post-tour arrangements outside of your departing airport
- Alcoholic beverages & snacks
- Travel insurance (recommended)