Bounty Islands
Islands Remote subantarctic islets with seabird colonies
The uninhabited Bounty Islands lie in the South Pacific and form a nature reserve noted for dense seabird colonies and seal haul-outs. Access is by expedition vessel; visits are limited and mainly scientific.
The Bounty Islands are a small, uninhabited group of granite islets in the South Pacific administered by New Zealand and included in the Subantarctic Islands World Heritage Area.
The islets are rugged, steep and free of human habitation, providing important breeding habitat for seabirds and rookeries for seals; there are no permanent facilities for visitors.
They were named in the late 18th century and have been managed for conservation as part of New Zealand’s subantarctic island network.
The islands lie in the south Pacific well to the southeast of New Zealand’s main islands and are remote and rarely visited.
- World Heritage and access restrictions: Part of New Zealand's Subantarctic Islands World Heritage Area and designated for their ecological importance, with restricted access for conservation and scientific purposes.
How to Get to Bounty Islands #
The Bounty Islands are extremely remote. Access is by private or research vessel from New Zealand ports (Invercargill or Bluff) and requires special permits from New Zealand conservation authorities. There are no scheduled passenger services.
Tips for Visiting Bounty Islands #
- The Bounty Islands are a strict nature reserve; there is no casual visitor infrastructure and landing is usually prohibited without a permit.
- Boat trips in the area are dangerous due to heavy seas and rocky shores - only experienced sea operators should attempt approach.
- If interested in wildlife, plan a guided expedition with a conservation organization that has permit access.
Best Time to Visit Bounty Islands #
Sea access is generally only attempted in the austral summer (December-March) and usually only with special permission.
