The latest Council news and events
Our staff and elected representatives
Find out about upcoming meetings and read agendas
Social, economic, environmental and cultural wellbeing
How to request official information from the Council
The Chathams Islands is a remote, awe-inspiring place
Information on the 2025 local elections
Sets out our work and priorities for the next financial year
Our work and priorities for the next decade
A report on the Chatham Islands economy
An overview of the Council’s activity
Resource management framework summary
Transport priorities for 2021 – 2031
Dog Control Bylaw overview
Waitangi Beach vehicle bylaw
Managing boating and other activities on water
Understanding hazards and risks to build capability
The historic surfboat resting in the dunes at Waitangi, a treasured relic from Pitt Island’s seafaring past, is proposed to be saved and preserved.
For many islanders, especially those who grew up on Pitt Island, the old surf boat holds a wealth of fond memories as it ferried cargo and livestock between Pitt Island’s Flowerpot Bay and the MV Holmedale once or twice a year.
Built in 1969 by Stark Bros in Lyttelton for the Chatham Islands County Council, the boat is believed to be one of the last of its kind remaining in New Zealand.
Thanks to a grant from the Lottery Environment and Heritage Fund, a Conservation Report has already been completed. Now, a group of locals are seeking to raise the estimated $60,000 needed to complete the preservation work, build a protective shelter, and create interpretive signage to share the boat’s story with future generations. They are aiming to apply for a further grant from Lottery Environment and Heritage in August to assist with funding two thirds of the project cost so are looking to raise around $20,000 by mid August.
Fulton Hogan has kindly offered to move the boat and a shed has been secured free of charge to dry it out where restoration can begin. Initial support has also been pledged by local fishing companies and islanders who want to see this piece of our heritage saved. But more is still needed to help to reach the goal.
To support the Surf Boat Restoration Project or get in touch, Judy Kamo can be contacted via email at judyhkamo@gmail.com or mobile on 027 316 2281.
Every contribution — big or small — brings this special piece of Pitt Island history one step closer to being preserved for generations to come.
The surf boat after the initial cleanup during the preparation of the Conservation Report.
The surf boat being used to unload a Land Rover circa 1970s. Photo: Judy Kamo
The surf boat in use at Pitt Island unloading goods with MV Holmedale in the background, circa 1970s. Photo: Judy Kamo
