 New Zealand's Subantarctic Islands : Profile
The New Zealand Sub-Antarctic Islands consist of five island groups (the Snares, Bounty Islands, Antipodes Islands, Auckland Islands and Campbell Island) in the Southern Ocean south-east of New Zealand. The islands, lying between the Antarctic and Subtropical Convergences and the seas, have a high level of biodiversity. They are particularly noted for the large numbers of seabirds and penguins that nest there. There are 126 bird species in total, of which five breed nowhere else in the world. They are administered as Nature Reserves by the Department of Conservation (DOC), PO Box 473, Invercargill, New Zealand. Tourism is allowed and various cruise ships visit the islands from New Zealand, but all visits are strictly controlled by the DOC. All indigenous flora and fauna is protected by legislation. Quarantine is strict to prevent the introduction of non-native pests; DOC officials may carry out checks at the ports of departure from New Zealand. No animals are permitted on board vessels visiting the islands. Entry to the islands is by permit only, issued by the DOC. The landing fee per day per person is $200. This covers quarantine and processing costs as well as including the new Subantarctic Guidebook. There is an annual quota of tourists allowed to visit each site. All visitors, including those on yachts, must be accompanied by an official DOC guide. Visits with permits are possible on the following islands, at the landing points approved by the guide: Campbell Island (52°33'S 169°09'E), Auckland Islands (50°50'S 166°00'E). No tourists or sailors are allowed to visit the Bounty Islands (47°42'S 179°03'E), the Antipodes Islands (49°41'S 178°48'E) or Snares Islands (48°02'S 166°35'S).
Yachts Planning to Visit Antartica
Any yachts leaving for the Antartica with at least one British national on board are able to apply for a permit from the U.K. Foreign Office. This can also be done even if the yacht is not U.K. flagged. See www.fco.gov.uk/resources/en/pdf/3849543/antarctica-yachting-guidelines
for more information as well as useful data about sailing in Antartica. There are forms tailored to expeditions by smaller yachts.
Last updated March 2010.
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