10 Pristine Oceania Archipelagos Where Time Stands Still

7. Chatham Islands, New Zealand

More than 430 miles east of New Zealand’s mainland, the Chatham Islands sit at the crossroads of wild weather and proud isolation. Harsh coastal cliffs, rolling farmland, and rare wildlife shape a landscape governed by winds and waves. The indigenous Moriori culture—distinct from New Zealand’s Māori—resonates in local legend, language, and artistry. Birdwatchers arrive to spot the Chatham albatross and other endemic species, while seafood lovers savor crayfish and blue cod. With fewer than 700 residents and minimal tourist infrastructure, visits feel like a privilege, not a package deal. Travelers fly in from Wellington or Christchurch, braving seasons that range from blustery to balmy. On the Chathams, time itself seems to pause, yielding to weather, tides, and the firm traditions of its people.