Chatham Islands, New Zealand: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Chatham Islands, New Zealand? If you're planning to go to Chatham Islands, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Chatham Islands, New Zealand

Based on the climate and weather in Chatham Islands, New Zealand, the best time to go is January. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Chatham Islands, New Zealand

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Chatham Islands, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Chatham Islands, New Zealand by month

January

January in Chatham Islands is chilly and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) to 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chatham Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Take care to find the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to the Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Going to Nunuku's Cave? You'll need:

February

Traveling to Chatham Islands in February, you will notice that it is cool and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chatham Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. It's important that you find the correct kind. Many adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

If you go to the Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Going to Nunuku's Cave? You'll need:

March

In March, Chatham Islands is relatively cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 60s F (high 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 50s F (low 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Chatham Islands, with more than half of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chatham Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. It's important that you get the right type. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to the Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Going to Nunuku's Cave? You'll need:

April

April in Chatham Islands is crisp and very rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C) to high 50s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chatham Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be sure to get the correct type. Many adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to the Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Going to Nunuku's Cave? You'll need:

May

May in Chatham Islands can be chilly and very rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chatham Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Take care to find the right kind. The majority of adapters available online are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to the Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Going to Nunuku's Cave? You'll need:

June

If you visit Chatham Islands during June, you may find that it is pretty cool and extremely rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 50s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 40s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chatham Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Check that you pick the right kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to the Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Going to Nunuku's Cave? You'll need:

July

July in this region is brisk and extremely rainy. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C) during the day. It rains most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chatham Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Check that you pick the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to the Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Going to Nunuku's Cave? You'll need:

August

In August, Chatham Islands can be brisk and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 50s F (low 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Chatham Islands, with more than half of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chatham Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Take care to find the right kind. The majority of adapters available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

If you go to the Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Going to Nunuku's Cave? You'll need:

September

If you go to Chatham Islands in September, you will notice that it is cold and very rainy. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chatham Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Make sure to get the right kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to the Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Going to Nunuku's Cave? You'll need:

October

October in Chatham Islands is cool and very rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chatham Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Make sure to pick the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.

If you go to the Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Going to Nunuku's Cave? You'll need:

November

If you vacation in Chatham Islands during November, you will probably find that it is cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 40s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chatham Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. It's important that you choose the correct type. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

If you go to the Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Going to Nunuku's Cave? You'll need:

December

December is relatively cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (high 10s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chatham Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Check that you get the necessary kind. Many adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to the Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Going to Nunuku's Cave? You'll need:

What to do in Chatham Islands, New Zealand

The Chatham Islands are a remote and beautiful collection of islands located off the east coast of New Zealand’s South Island. Known for their unique wildlife, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural history, they offer a wealth of attractions for tourists seeking a truly authentic New Zealand experience.

1. Tuku Nature Reserve

Tuku Nature Reserve is a must-visit attraction on the Chatham Islands. With its rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and abundant birdlife, it offers a breathtaking view of the unique landscape of this region. You can spend hours exploring the trails around the reserve and taking in the beautiful natural scenery.

2. Chatham Island Museum

The Chatham Island Museum is located in the heart of Waitangi, and it is a must-visit tourist destination for anyone interested in learning more about the history and culture of the island. The museum tells the story of the island and its people through a range of exhibits, interactive displays, and audiovisual presentations.

3. Pitt Island

Located 18 kilometres southeast of the Chatham Islands, Pitt Island is an idyllic holiday destination that offers a true taste of rural New Zealand life. The island is home to a few hundred people and is known for its beautiful beaches, rugged backcountry, and unspoiled natural beauty.

4. Kaingaroa Beach

For those who love to relax on the beach, Kaingaroa is a beautiful sandy beach on the south coast of Chatham Island. It is a popular spot for swimming, surfing, and fishing, and it offers an idyllic spot for a picnic or a family outing.

5. Hapupu National Historic Reserve

Hapupu National Historic Reserve is an important archaeological site on the Chatham Islands, and it is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the islands’ early inhabitants. The reserve features an array of ancient Maori structures, including a huge walled village, storage pits, and stone mound structures.

6. Māori Cultural Tours

If you’re interested in learning more about the unique Māori culture of the Chatham Islands, taking a Māori cultural tour is a great way to do so. You can visit historic sites, meet local Māori guides, and learn about the traditions, customs, and history of the Chatham Islands’ indigenous people.

In conclusion, the Chatham Islands are a beautiful and unique destination that offer a range of attractions for tourists seeking a true taste of New Zealand life. Whether you’re interested in the natural beauty of the region, the cultural history of the islands, or simply relaxing on a sandy beach, there’s something for everyone on these beautiful and remote islands.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Broken Bow, Oklahoma, United States of America, Kazarman, Kyrgyzstan, Great Yarmouth, England, United Kingdom, Tarija, Bolivia, Eastham, Massachusetts, United States of America, Lübeck, Germany, Mexico City, Distrito Federal, Mexico, Saint Cloud, Minnesota, United States of America, Khust, Ukraine, Port Barton, Philippines, and Bogø, Denmark.