Page 20 - 2021 Girls on the Road Again Tour Brochure

20
2021
30 April - 3 May
CHATHAM ISLANDS
On this tour we explore the Chatham Islands. A remote ocean-bound wilderness, most famous for its plentiful fresh seafood, fascinating marine and wildlife. With outstanding scenery and welcoming hosts, these islands will leave a lasting impression. Join us on this “foodie & photography” tour as we visit New Zealand's most remote eastern point, the furthest domestic flight possible (around 2.5 hours). You'll be treated to the marine and the island's wildlife along with the abundant New Zealand fur seal colonies. This cruise will be a “must” for the photographers joining us.
Geographically isolated for millions of years, the Chathams have witnessed the evolution of unique bird species that make the islands important to conser- vation nationally and internationally. While we are here, let’s do a little treasure hunting on the shores of beautiful Te Whanga lagoon where careful fossicking is likely to be rewarded by the discovery of fossilised shark teeth. Around 30 million years old, these teeth are a treasure of the island. Some, from the jaws of prehis- toric megaladon (an extinct species of shark), the teeth are around 10 centime- tres long.
Visiting the Basalt Columns at Ohira Bay parallel those of Ireland’s Giant’s Causeway that has been given UNESCO World Heritage Site status. The unique pillow lava formation is known as Splatter Rock and the impressive vista of cones that comprise the Northern Volcanics in north-west Chatham are simply
stunning geological works of mother nature. On Pitt Island, the contras- ting views from the ‘Mars’ lookout of the 65 million-year-old Red Bluff Tuff formations at Waihere Bay to 5 million year old Mangere lsland are also impressive.
For the foodies, fresh local sourced cod, groper and crayfish is just the beginning.
Left photo credit Mark Thompson