The Chatham Islands are a photographers delight with the contrasting  ugged landscapes, according to Innovative Travel groups manager, Lynda Morrison.

‘August was a great time to go, the temperatures were a lot milder than my hometown Christchurch and the weather proved great for taking photos.’

Air Chathams will have a keen interest in the opening up of Norfolk Island to Australian visitors on 10 July, says airline and charter general manager Duane Emery.

A ‘technically overseas destination’ that is reached without leaving New Zealand is gaining popularity amongst consumers and consequently providing opportunities for the travel trade.

Tourism Chatham Islands manager, Jackie Gurden, says one of the key drivers for growth right now is the inability of Kiwis to head offshore for their holidays. ‘One operator has completely filled tours with people who have cancelled their overseas trip, and they weren’t necessarily existing clients.’