Ōwenga
Ōwenga | |
|---|---|
Chatham Island, with Ōwenga in the southeast | |
| Country | New Zealand |
| Territorial authority | Chatham Islands |
| Island | Chatham Island |
| Population | |
• Total | 51 |
| Time zone | Chatham Standard Time Zone |
Ōwenga, also known as Ōuenga or Kowewenga, is a small settlement on Chatham Island, in New Zealand's Chatham Islands group.[1] It is the second easternmost settlement in New Zealand, after Flower Pot Bay on Pitt Island and one of the five main settlements on Chatham Island.[2] It is located in the southeast of the island, close to Cape Fournier.
History
Ōwenga was one of the earliest occupation areas for Moriori on the island, containing areas of archaeological evidence including coastal dune burials.[3] The site was originally supported by a large Moriori population, however, the arrival of sealers and whalers to the Chathams brought disease, decimating the Moriori population. By 1867, there were only 30 Moriori living in the Ōwenga area.[4] Ōwenga is home to a number of fishermen and now serves as the main departure point for Pitt Island; a boat ride that takes 50 minutes.[1][5]
Services
The Wharf at Ōwenga was built in 2010 and is the home of many fishing boats. There is a fish factory, the Chatham Island Food Co,[6] but no other shops.
There is one primary school, the Ōwenga School, which was founded in 1910.[7]
References
- ^ a b administratorium. "Owenga Village – The Chatham Islands". Retrieved 22 July 2024.
- ^ "Chatham Islands Council Summary Annual Report 2020/21" (PDF). Chatham Islands Council. 31 July 2023. Retrieved 28 November 2025.
- ^ Thorpe, Susan (28 July 2022). "Moriori Claims Settlement Act 2021" (PDF). Chatham Islands Council. Retrieved 27 November 2025.
- ^ Halse, H (1867). "Report on the Chatham Islands by Mr. Halse". Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives.
- ^ "Where is Pitt Island? How to get to Flowerpot Bay Lodge". www.flowerpotlodge.co.nz. Retrieved 28 November 2025.
- ^ administratorium. "Chatham Island Food Co – The Chatham Islands". Retrieved 28 November 2025.
- ^ "Owenga School". natlib.govt.nz. Retrieved 28 November 2025.
44°01′37″S 176°21′40″W / 44.027°S 176.361°W