July 13, 2025 2:00 pm - July 18, 2025 12:00 pm
Join Our Exclusive Chatham Island Farming Tour
Experience the rugged beauty and unique challenges of farming on the Chatham Islands with a dedicated local guide. This tour is perfect for those who want to delve into the island’s farming life while enjoying its natural wonders.
Immerse Yourself in Island Farming:
- Hosted Farm Visits: Explore three local farms and gain first-hand insight from farmers about the Chatham Island farming life. You’ll also learn about the vital role of the Southern Tiare, the island’s lifeline for freight, fuel, and livestock transportation. This is an incredible opportunity to understand the resilience and creativity of Chatham Island farmers!
- Learn About Shoreline Regeneration : Hear from Maui Solomon, grandson of the legendary Tommy Solomon, about his work in tree planting and shoreline vegetation regeneration.
- Evening “Chin Wag”: Join local farmers for a casual evening at the hotel, where you can chat and share stories over drinks.
- Learn About Conservation: Gain insights into the island’s pest eradication program, which plays a crucial role in preserving the island’s unique ecosystem.
- Gourmet Farm Lunch: Enjoy a private chef-prepared long lunch at Kopi Bush Retreat, featuring a sumptuous “farm & sea” buffet with a glass or two of bubbles.
All-Inclusive Convenience:
- Hassle-Free Travel: Depart and return from Auckland with Air Chathams flights included.
- Expert Guidance: The tour is fully escorted by Lesley and Rob, alongside a dedicated and knowledgeable Chatham Island guide.
- Comfortable Accommodation: Relax for five nights at Hotel Chathams, located on the shoreline, with a selection of room types to suit your needs.
- Private Rooms at No Extra Cost: Enjoy the privacy of your own room without any additional charge.
Culinary Delights:
- Hearty Breakfasts: Start each day with your choice of cooked or continental breakfasts.
- Lunches with a Twist: Enjoy a variety of packed lunches and BBQs, including a memorable private lunch prepared by Chef Kaai Silbery at the off-grid Kopi Bush Retreat, featured on Grand Designs New Zealand.
- Afternoon Teas in Wool Sheds: Savor the charm of traditional wool shed afternoon teas.
- Seafood Extravaganza: Delight in a seafood experience at Waitangi West farm seafood entrée at Admiral Gardens.
- Dinners: Each evening, indulge in a three-course dinner, including a welcoming seafood meal on your first night. Wines and beers served with dinner each night.
Embark on this unique farming adventure and experience the Chatham Islands in a way few others have. From farm visits to gourmet meals, every detail is designed to make your journey unforgettable. Book your spot today!
Excludes:
- Purchases of a personal nature
- Alcohol over and above provided with dinners and spirits
- Barista or speciality coffees
Important Notes:
- Travel Insurance: Strongly recommended due to possible weather-related flight delays. Book flexible airfares for your connecting flights.
- Unique Experience: The Chatham Islands offer a rare escape with no supermarkets, retail stores, skyscrapers, or fast food chains. Embrace the friendly fishing and farming community.
- Local Culture: Locals, known as Weka’s, are friendly and welcoming. They may refer to New Zealand as a different country and consider you a New Zealander. It’s polite to wave back when greeted on the road.
- Cancellation Policy: Refunds are only available if your seat is resold. Full refunds are provided if we cancel the tour.
Other Information:
If you are flying to or from Wellington to connect with your Air Chatham flights, please ensure you book flexible airfares as adverse weather conditions can alter Air Chatham’s flight departure times out of both Wellington and Chatham Island.
- Monday 13th July Auckland/Chatham Island – flight departs 5.00pm and we check around 2.00pm
- Friday 18th July Chatham Island/Auckland – flight departs at 10.00am landing Auckland around 12.0noon. If you are flying on from here, please book your onward flight after 2.00pm.
Choose your room type:
Ticket Type | Price | Cart |
---|---|---|
Heart of Farming on the Chatham Islands deposit per person - Single Room (no ensuite, share bathroom facilities) | $1,000 | |
Heart of Farming on the Chatham Islands deposit per person - Bayview Room with ensuite | $1,000 | |
Heart of Farming on the Chatham Islands deposit per person - Executive First Floor room with ensuite | $1,000 | |
Heart of Farming on the Chatham Islands deposit per person - Forget Me Not Suites with ensuite | $1,000 |