The Chatham Islands form a unique and geographically isolated area. There is a high level of endemism amongst the species found there and the absence of some species that are found around mainland New Zealand. The uniqueness of the Chatham Islands is recognised in fisheries legislation. The Chatham Islands Inshore Fisheries (CIF) Plan area encompasses the inshore and inland waters of Fisheries Management Area 4 around the Chatham Islands. It includes reef fish, finfish, shellfish (including crustaceans), eels, and seaweeds. Fisheries are a valuable part of the Chatham Islands economy, and a significant contributor to overall fishery exports from New Zealand. Important species include rock lobster, paua, and blue cod.