What is the difference between CHAST and NZST?
CHAST is 45 minutes ahead of NZST. New Zealand Standard Time (NZST) is used in mainland New Zealand, while Chatham Islands follows CHAST.
UTC time
URL copied to clipboard!
Copied embed code to clipboard!
CHAST
Chatham Standard Time
16 Nov 2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this area observe DST?
Yes, the Chatham Islands observe daylight saving time, shifting to CHADT (Chatham Daylight Time) during the summer months.
Which major cities follow this pattern?
The only major area following this schedule is the Chatham Islands, which is part of New Zealand.
What areas share the same hours?
No other major locations follow CHAST, though nearby New Zealand's mainland follows NZST.
How does this compare with UTC?
CHAST is 12 hours and 45 minutes ahead of UTC.
Why doesn't this area observe DST year-round?
The Chatham Islands observe daylight saving time to make better use of daylight during the summer months and to align more closely with the mainland.
How did this system get established?
CHAST was established in the 19th century to account for the Chatham Islands’ geographic location, which is east of New Zealand's mainland.
What are the typical work hours here?
Business hours on the Chatham Islands typically run from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with a break for lunch.
What is the economic importance of this area?
The Chatham Islands' economy is based on fishing, agriculture, and tourism, with the islands' isolation adding to their unique appeal.