Henderson Island world heritage site : management plan 2004-2009

Abstract

Henderson Island is uninhabited and one of four islands in the UK Overseas Territory of the Pitcairn Islands. In 1988 it was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Although utilised both by Polynesians in the past and by present-day Pitcairn Islanders, Henderson Island remains in a largely pristine condition and is a unique Pacific example of an undisturbed raised coral island. It is horne to 71 vascular plant species, over 300 molluscs, at least 180 insects, four endemic landbirds and major seabird colonies. It is also of supreme archaeological interest because of a period of Polynesian occupation lasting at least 600 years. Consequently Henderson Island is a resource of unique conservation and scientific research significance.