Where: Norman Kirk Memorial Reserve, Owenga Rd, Waitangi, Chatham Islands

When: Saturday 6th March 2021, 11:00am until 7:00pm

Entry: Free

 

“Awaken your inner COWBOY/COWGIRL as you bring along your rodeo swagger sharing in a day of tribute to all things country.”

 

 About the Chatham Islands Festival 2021

The much anticipated Chatham Islands Festival celebrates the heritage, cuisine and resilience of New Zealand’s most remote community. Arriving at the idyllic Norman Kirk Memorial Reserve, guests can expect a warm community welcome, followed by an afternoon toasting local food, beverage and boutiques. Highlights lnclude: 

• Feasting on a plethora of Chatham seafood delicacies like fresh Chatham crayfish, paua, kina and the internationally renowned Chatham blue cod. 

• Exploring a range of craft stalls showcasing the work of local artisans.  

• Fantastic live music and family friendly entertainment.

Chatham Island Food Co.

Chatham Island Food Co. is pleased to welcome Tom Hishon — Auckland chef and co-founder of the highly popular ‘Kingi’ restaurant — to this year's festival. Tom and his team will be preparing and sharing some of their favourite Chatham seafood-based recipes from the Chatham Island Food Co family stall throughout the afternoon.

 

About the Chatham Islands

Where are the Chatham Islands?

The Chatham Islands lie some 800km east of New Zealand, in the middle of the ‘Roaring Forties’. First in the world to see the sun rise, and the last major Pacific Island to be settled, the Chathams are renowned for their unique flora and fauna. 

 

How big is the island?

Chatham and Pitt Island, the two largest of the Rēkohu archipelago, cover an area of 966 sq Km, which is smaller but comparable to Banks Peninsula in size. Te Whanga Lagoon, the island's largest natural feature, covers one-fifth of the Chathams total geography.

 

How many people live on the Island?

Around 600 people are permanently based on the Chatham Islands, with 40% of these — roughly 250 islanders — based at Waitangi, where the main port is located. 

 

Is there a time difference?

Chatham Island Standard Time (CHAST) is 12:45 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) and a full 45 minutes ahead of New Zealand standard time.

 

How to get the Chatham Islands

Air Chathams operate regular weekday flights between the Chatham Islands (Tuuta Airport) and main centres Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. Flights take approximately two hours and no passport or money exchange is required. Air Chathams also operate six-seater flights between Chatham and Pitt Island.

 

Where to stay on the Chatham Islands

A variety of accommodation options are available on the Chathams, these include hotels, lodges, and rentable homestays catering to all tastes. For a comprehensive list of places to stay we recommend visiting www.chathamislands.co.nz. Camping and freedom camping are not permitted on the island. 

 

What can I do on the Chatham Islands?

The Chatham Islands possess an untouched beauty, unique heritage and a curious history; they’re a great destination for those wanting to immerse themselves in nature. In terms of attractions, there’s plenty for visitors to sink their toes, tires, tripods and teeth into, including:

• Nature and eco-tourism — visit local wildlife sanctuaries and discover endemic flora and fauna 
• Authentic hunting and fishing experiences
• Some of New Zealand’s most captivating and camera-ready scenery
• Luxury and historic accommodation in truly exotic locations
• Visit historic and culturally significant landmarks
• New Zealand’s freshest and finest selection of seafood dishes