The far-flung Chatham Islands lie about 800 km (500 miles) to the east of Aotearoa New Zealand. These islands are a critical hub for migrating albatrosses and a stronghold for 326 of New Zealand’s endangered species. A community of around 700 people, including indigenous Moriori and Māori, call these islands home.
Around 3 million years ago, the Chatham archipelago lifted from the ocean floor, leading to the evolution of isolated and unique wildlife. Some of these precious species – like the hopo / toroa / Chatham Island albatross, Chatham Island tāiko and karure / kakaruia / black robin – are found nowhere else in the world.
Together, these islands are one of the world’s most diverse seabird breeding sites. Productive oceans also support thick kelp forests, colonies of sea lions and seals, and a spectrum of fish and shellfish that provide food for albatrosses and other seabirds. This rich seabird-driven system helps the islands’ plants and animals thrive.
