New Zealand Subantarctic Islands

The New Zealand Subantarctic Islands comprise five island groups in southern waters characterized by steep cliffs, dense forests, and open grasslands. These areas are designated as a World Heritage Site due to their ecological importance.

Early explorers from Europe documented these islands in the 1800s and subsequently established temporary sealing and whaling operations. Once commercial activity ceased, their remote location allowed the landscape and wildlife to recover without significant further human interference.

The islands hold deep meaning for those who study and protect rare wildlife, with visitor access carefully managed to balance human presence against conservation needs. The experience of seeing animals that exist nowhere else creates a sense of connection to these isolated communities.

Access requires special permits and authorized tour operators, as individual visits to these protected areas are not permitted. The journey involves boat travel to remote locations where weather conditions can change quickly.

These islands host one of the world's largest colonies of royal albatrosses, birds that can live more than 50 years. Yellow-eyed penguins nesting here are among the rarest penguin species globally.