New Zealand Sub-Antarctic Islands

The New Zealand Sub-Antarctic Islands are five remote island groups in the Southern Ocean administered by New Zealand. The archipelagos are globally significant for their largely intact subantarctic ecosystems and large seabird and marine mammal populations.

The groups include the Auckland Islands, Campbell Island / Motu Ihupuku, the Snares / Tini Heke, the Antipodes Islands and the Bounty Islands, each supporting dense seabird colonies and many island-endemic species. Human habitation is minimal to non-existent; a small number of islands receive seasonal conservation and scientific teams.

Sealers and whalers visited the islands in the early 19th century, causing heavy exploitation of seal populations; since the 20th century the islands have been progressively protected and managed for conservation. Current management prioritises eradication of introduced species, habitat restoration and strict biosecurity.

The island groups lie in the Southern Ocean several hundred kilometres south of New Zealand’s South Island, spread roughly between about 47°S and 53°S latitude. They are accessible only by authorised vessels and are internationally recognised for their conservation value.

• Access restrictions: Landing and access are strictly controlled for biosecurity and conservation; most visits are by expedition cruise with permits and strict protocols.
• Best time to visit: Most seabird and marine wildlife activity is concentrated in the austral summer, roughly November to March, when breeding and seal pupping occur.

What to See#

• Auckland Islands: Auckland Islands - the largest group in the chain, supporting extensive seabird colonies and diverse coastal habitats.
• Campbell Island: Campbell Island / Motu Ihupuku - a southern group known for dense megaherb vegetation and important seabird breeding sites, with seasonal research activity.
• The Snares: The Snares / Tini Heke - the closest group to New Zealand’s South Island and noted for large, undisturbed breeding colonies of seabirds.
• Antipodes and Bounty Islands: Antipodes Islands and Bounty Islands - small, remote groups important for nesting seabirds and marine biodiversity.

The New Zealand Sub‑Antarctic Islands are remote and not accessible by scheduled public transport - visits are by expedition vessel only. Expedition cruises and scientific charters normally depart from Bluff (the port immediately south of Invercargill) or Invercargill; landings are tightly controlled and require permits from New Zealand’s Department of Conservation. If travelling to join an expedition, fly or drive to Invercargill/Bluff and board the approved vessel from the Bluff wharf.

• Access to the Sub‑Antarctic Islands is only by organised expedition cruise; plan and book an Antarctic‑style small ship voyage (departing from Bluff/Invercargill or via longer Southern Ocean itineraries) well in advance of the austral summer season.
• Travel in the austral summer (roughly December-March) when landings and wildlife viewing are possible, and be prepared to follow strict New Zealand Department of Conservation biosecurity and landing-permit rules - landings are limited and tightly managed.