The Chatham Islands relies on shipping for essential resources, like diesel for the electricity grid and fuel for air services.

The main port is at Waitangi and features:

  • a 163-metre breakwater made of 4000 interlocking concrete blocks, designed to protect the wharf from the impact of incoming waves
  • 10,700 square metres of port area
  • a 90-metre long cargo wharf
  • a 35 metre fishermen’s wharf
  • water tanks for 100 cattle.

Waitangi Wharf Coastal Process Monitoring Report Tonkin + Taylor December 2020 [PDF, 16 MB]

The Council also has wharves at Owenga, Kaingaroa, Port Hutt and Flower Pot on Pitt Island.

Port charges

Port charges are payable to the Chatham Islands Council - via online banking, telephone banking, post, or in person. Please refer to the Your Rates page for more information on these payment options.

 Fee Type  Description  2023/24 Fee GST Inclusive
 Waitangi  Per year  $3,630
 Owenga  Per year  $3,025
 Kaingaroa  Per year  $2,418
 Port Hutt  Per year  $2,418
 Flower Pot  Per year  $607
 Permission of Harbourmaster – Oil Tanker    $122
 Application for Exemption    $73
 Application for Suspension    $303
 Application for Reservation    $303

Cruise ship charges

Cruise ships are charged $44 per passenger, per visit.

Cruise ship charges are payable to the Chatham Islands Council - via online banking, telephone banking, post, or in person. Please refer to the Your Rates page for more information on these payment options.