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Q:
What sort of clothing do I need?
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Due to the variable weather, we would recommend the following:
- Layers of clothing available
- Thermals
- Wind and rain proof jacket
- Sturdy footwear (suitable for walking, keeping in mind that tracks can be wet and muddy)
- Sunhat & Sunglasses
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Q:
Will my mobile phone work?
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No. Please leave your mobile phone at home. The Chatham Islands are a place to unwind and appreciate the beauty of nature. Due to it's isolation there are no mobile phone networks.
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Q:
What can I see and do when I am there?
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There is actually plenty to see and do - or you can do nothing at all. Popular choices are:
- socialise and make new friends
- see the conservation programs in action
- see the many unique plants and wildlife
- enjoy the magnificant coastlines and beaches
- fishing - both deep sea and freshwater
- diving
- walk or trek the many pathways
- visit the numerous historic and cultural sites
- learn about our Moriori, Maori and European history.
Let the beauty and mystery of these lovely islands transport you to a whole new world.
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Q:
What Is the electricity supply?
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The Chathams are on 240v as is standard for New Zealand.
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Q:
What time zone is the Chathams in?
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- The Chatham Islands are 45 minutes AHEAD of New Zealand
- The Chatham Standard Time Zone is a geographic region that keeps time by adding twelve hours and forty-five minutes to Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) resulting in UTC+12:45
- It is one of only two official time zones without an hour or half-hour offset from UTC. (Nepal Time is the other time zone that keeps its offset at UTC+5:45)
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Q:
I have dietary needs - will that matter?
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All foodstuffs on the Chatham Islands are sourced locally or directly from mainland New Zealand. The seafood is divine and in abundance.
There is a small mini-market and only a couple of options for eating out
You should speak with your hosts if you have specific dietary needs
You may want to bring some of your own food stuffs depending on where you are staying and what cooking options are available, since many specific dietary options may not be available.
Food may be carried on-board the aircraft from NZ, but please ensure it is properly packaged and sealed to prevent any possibility of damage, through spills or leaks etc.
If not sure please ask at check-in counter!
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Q:
Are there shuttles or taxis?
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No
Your host will arrange airport pick up and drop off.
Rental vehicles can also be arranged.
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Q:
Do I need travel & medical insurance?
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Yes - we strongly recommend that you have both travel and medical insurance.
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Q:
What is the weather like?
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Being surrounded by ocean the islands are exposed to the elements. The weather can be extremely variable at times. We recommend that you bear in mind the following:
- Temperatures in summer can range from 15 to 24 degrees Celsius in summer (December to February) and from 6 to 15 in winter.
- Frosts are very rare
- Rainfall is quite high at 900mm a year.
- September through March are generally the best months to visit
- The Chathams are located in the Roaring Forties, so windy conditions are common
- However the islands can experience fabulous weather all seasons
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Q:
Do you need a passport?
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No. Provided you are eligible to enter NZ or hold a NZ passport there will be no immigration issues for your trip to the Chatham Islands.
