A lone albatross sits nestled in tall grass on a windswept cliff overlooking the ocean, with dramatic rocky islets rising from the water in the distance. The overcast sky and rugged landscape evoke a remote, wild atmosphere on this New Zealand Subantarctic Island coastline.
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New Zealand Subantarctic Islands: How to Visit the Snares, Auckland, Campbell and Macquarie

BySherry Updated on

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New Zealand islands usually brings to mind the North and South Islands, but the ones that surprised me most sit far south in the Southern Ocean. These New Zealand Subantarctic islands feel like a different world—more wildlife than people, unpredictable weather, and coastlines that look untouched because, for the most part, they are.

These islands are all south of Invercargill (the country’s southernmost city), and they are not somewhere you can “add on” with a rental car or a quick ferry. The practical way to visit is on a small expedition cruise, typically 10–12 days, running in the southern hemisphere’s summer season.

They are not exactly a secret to Australians and New Zealanders, but many people have never heard of them. Some were heavily impacted by sealing in the early 1800s, and today they are protected precisely because of how unique and fragile their ecosystems are.

In this guide, I am focusing on the Subantarctic island groups south of New Zealand’s South Island: The Snares, the Auckland Islands (including Enderby), and Campbell Island, plus Macquarie Island, which is Australian but often included on the same itineraries.

A group of hikers treks up a windswept, grassy hillside dotted with purple wildflowers on a remote island overlooking the ocean. The scene features dramatic coastal cliffs and rocky islets under a cloudy sky, capturing the raw beauty of a subantarctic landscape.
Campbell Island is one of the New Zealand Subantarctic Islands you can land on and go for a hike.

The discovery of most of these islands occurred in the early 1800s. Whalers and sealers set up temporary bases, the islands becoming one of the principal sealing stations in the Pacific in the years immediately after their discovery.

The wildlife was nearly decimated during that time. After the sealing days and in more modern times people began to realize the uniqueness and remoteness of these islands, as well as the abundance of wildlife living here, and they became a destination in and of themselves.

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Which New Zealand Islands Are These?

When I say “New Zealand islands” in this article, I am talking about the Subantarctic island groups south of New Zealand’s South Island:

  • The Snares Islands – closest to the mainland and completely off-limits to landing
  • Auckland Islands (including Enderby Island) – the largest group and a key wildlife hub
  • Campbell Island – New Zealand’s southernmost island, famous for megaherbs and albatross
  • Macquarie Island – technically Australian, but often included on New Zealand Subantarctic island cruises
A labeled map of Antarctica and surrounding regions showing major geographic features like ice shelves, seas, and nearby islands. Countries such as South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, and South America are also marked to highlight their proximity to Antarctica.
Map of New Zealand Islands

A Natural Wonderland in New Zealand’s Subantarctic Islands

The islands are a nature wonderland. Most are uninhabited by humans, rugged, and even a bit lonely. They are the only Subantarctic islands in the Pacific sector of the Southern Ocean.

The islands span 47 to 55 degrees south latitude, thereby placing them in the stormy latitudes of the Roaring Forties and Furious Fifties. It’s cool, cloudy, wet, and windy – rather bleak and depressing. But strangely, it’s precisely those dismal traits that make the islands so sought-after to visit.

As a group, they were given UNESCO World Heritage Status in 1988, recognizing the ‘outstanding universal value’ and ‘superlative natural phenomena’ of the islands.

Each island has different wildlife, flora, and fauna; much of it found no other place on earth. And that’s what makes the islands so special, they are unique, seldom visited by humans, and pure.

Luckily, they were on our Heritage Expeditions itinerary as a stop to break up the long cruise to Antarctica from New Zealand. We didn’t get to go to all of the islands, however, we stopped at a few main ones and were able to do landings, hike around, and experience the magic of the Subantarctic Islands of New Zealand and Australia.

Quick Facts: New Zealand Subantarctic Islands

Covers: The Snares, Auckland Islands (including Enderby), Campbell Island — plus Macquarie Island (Australian, but often on the same itineraries)
Where: Southern Ocean, south of New Zealand’s South Island (south of Invercargill)
How you get there: Small expedition cruise
Typical trip length: 10–12 days
Departure ports: Bluff or Dunedin
Best season: November–February
Conditions: Roaring Forties / Furious Fifties (47–55°S): cool, wet, windy
Landing rule to know: The Snares has no landings (Zodiac cruise only)
Itinerary note: Part of a Heritage Expeditions voyage on the Spirit of Enderby, breaking up the cruise to Antarctica
Best for: Wildlife lovers, photographers, and travelers who are okay with rough seas and flexible plans

How to Get to These Remote New Zealand Islands

You don’t have to go all the way to Antarctica to get to these remote islands. There are 10 to 12-day expedition cruises leaving New Zealand that will take you through the notorious Southern Ocean, to all these havens of abundant and unique wildlife.

A small inflatable boat with several people in bright jackets speeds across the open ocean toward a large white and blue research or expedition vessel anchored in the distance. The deep blue water and scattered clouds set the scene for a remote marine adventure.
The Spirit of Enderby

How to Visit the Subantarctic Islands from New Zealand

A group of people in colorful outdoor gear rides in a black inflatable boat along a rocky coastline with towering cliffs streaked with moss and lichen. The clear blue sky and scattered seabirds overhead enhance the sense of exploration in this remote, oceanic setting.
Cruising the Snares

The Snares Islands: Wild New Zealand Islands You Cannot Land On

This is the closest island to the New Zealand mainland, about a three-quarter-day voyage from Invercargill. It’s the only island of the Subantarctic Chain that has had no rodent infestation, which means its landscape is pristine, and it’s a place for many breeding birds.

We were not allowed to land there, as no humans are allowed on the island. However, we did anchor off the island and took a zodiac cruise around the perimeter to see the birds and hidden coves. As we pulled up to the rugged peninsula, swarms of Cape Petrels were floating in the water, feeding on krill.

Albatross sat in nests high up on the cliffs, looking down on us. And it didn’t take us long to spot the many groups of Snares Crested Penguins hopping around the steep rocks. As we cruised around the little caves and coves, we were able to begin to appreciate this pristine environment that few people get to see.

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Enderby Island: Wildlife-Rich New Zealand Subantarctic Island

Enderby Island is part of the Auckland Islands, the largest landmass of all the Subantarctic Islands. We stopped off at our ship’s namesake, Enderby Island, a tiny island at the north end of the chain. It was a windy, rainy, miserable day when we landed on the island, but the chance to walk around the island won out over comfort.

Sandy Bay was filled with what appeared to be ‘family’ groups of sea lions huddling together. The females and new pups lay on top of each other as the big, ugly males chased off other males from their harem. There was more sex and violence on this beach than in a soap opera!

After watching the sea lions, we set off to cross the island via the boardwalk trail, while another group took the more adventurous hike around the perimeter of the island. The boardwalk trail took us through some forested areas and then up onto the exposed landscape, where the wind howled with such a force that you could barely walk.

There amidst the wind gusts sat Southern Royal Albatross on nests as calm and regal as ever. We made it to the other side of the island to see the crashing waves against the cliffs. It rained sideways as we tried to eat lunch! It was a completely inhospitable day, but a good example of a typical day in the Auckland Islands.

A cluster of wet, muddy fur seal pups lies close together, their thick brown coats slick from moisture. One pup in the center looks up, its face more visible than the others, adding a sense of curiosity and alertness to the otherwise resting group.
Baby sea lions on Enderby Island… so darn cute.

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Macquarie Island: Wildlife and a Ranger-Led Tour of the Research Base

Even though Macquarie Island is Australian territory, it is included here because many Subantarctic expedition itineraries that depart New Zealand stop there as part of the same route.

This long, narrow island is packed with wildlife. It was formally proclaimed a Nature Reserve in 1978, and the Tasmanian Parks and Wildlife Service operates a year-round research and management program on the island.

There are currently three rangers there doing work, and they greeted us at the Isthmus on a windy afternoon. The rangers led us on a tour of the Australian research base (approx. 40 people) where scientists research the island.

A lone yellow-eyed penguin stands on wet, pebbly ground near the shoreline on Australia's Macquarie Island, wings slightly outstretched and head tilted upward. Its distinctive pale yellow eyes and crest feathers are visible, with seaweed and scattered rocks behind it.
Hundreds of king penguins gather on a rocky beach backed by steep, grassy hills under a partly cloudy sky. The colony stretches along the shoreline, with the turquoise sea and scattered kelp adding contrast to the vibrant, remote landscape.
Two southern elephant seal pups lie close together on a bed of green moss and grass, their faces pressed side by side in a relaxed, affectionate pose. Their large, round eyes and wrinkled skin add a gentle charm to the intimate moment.
A weathered wooden hut stands on a lush, grassy coastal plain surrounded by tufts of tussock grass, with misty green hills rising in the background. The isolated structure suggests a remote outpost, possibly for research or refuge, with a calm sea just beyond.
A densely packed colony of king penguins covers the rocky ground, with thousands of sleek black, white, and yellow birds standing shoulder to shoulder. The vibrant sea of penguins stretches far into the background, creating a striking and energetic wildlife scene.
A large brown seabird, likely a southern giant petrel, rests among thick green vegetation with a weathered wooden building blurred in the background. The bird’s pale, hooked beak and watchful expression stand out against the overcast sky and lush landscape.
A close-up of four king penguins standing on a rocky, dark-pebbled beach, showing off their sleek black, white, and yellow plumage. Their orange markings around the neck and beak stand out sharply, with each bird facing in a different direction.
Two large southern elephant seals engage in a vocal and physical confrontation, rearing up and facing each other with open mouths on a rocky shoreline. In the background, penguins and other seals dot the rugged coastal scene, with the ocean stretching out behind them.

The Rangers took us on a short hike around the isthmus, around the groups of non-breeding elephant seals. The seals were lying all over the island among the tall grasses and rocks, places like a giant easter egg hunt!

I hardly knew I was close to them until one of them moved or made some disgusting noise, and I realized I was standing only a few feet from them!

We walked up to a high lookout as the sun started peeking out of the stormy clouds, giving us spectacular views of the base and the island’s landscape. After a walk along the beach to visit some Royal, King, and Gentoo penguins, we warmed up in the mess hall with scones and tea!

We spent the following day at Sandy Bay among 50,000 penguins (royal and king) and fighting elephant seals. Interacting with the Macquarie Island wildlife was the highlight of my trip to the Subantarctic Islands!

MacQuarie Island Wildlife

Campbell Island: Hiking New Zealand’s Southernmost Island

With a protected harbor to anchor in, we had great luck landing at Campbell Island, New Zealand’s southernmost island. Rocks, plants, and seabirds are the essence of Campbell Island, and we went on a 12 km hike around the island to get a great introduction to these three highlights.

The hike was demanding, as few people get to this island. Even though the trek was occasionally marked by some white poles, the brush was so high that it was easy to lose your way. Our expedition leader, Rodney, led us through the maze of brush. At other times, the bog was so swampy that you had to step fast, or else you’d sink in!

A group of hikers walks along a windswept ridge on Campbell Island covered in tall tussock grass, overlooking a rugged coastline with steep cliffs and distant rocky islets under a cloudy sky. The expansive view highlights the remote and wild nature of the landscape.
Hiking the ridge on Campbell Island

The views were worth the tough trek. It was the best way to really see the island’s biodiversity. We walked up the sea cliff edge to spectacular views of Albatrosses flying overhead and fields of megaherbs. Megaherbs are large flowering plants with giant leaves and very bright flowers, unique to the Subantarctic islands.

When I was there in February, the prime flower season had passed; however, there were still a few fields of Pleurophyllum with its vibrant purple flowers.

A group of hikers treks up a windswept, grassy hillside dotted with purple wildflowers on a remote island overlooking the ocean. The scene features dramatic coastal cliffs and rocky islets under a cloudy sky, capturing the raw beauty of a subantarctic landscape.
A wandering albatross with a white head and soft pink bill rests quietly among tall grasses and green ferns. Its speckled wings are partially visible as it blends into the windswept vegetation of a remote island nesting site.
A hiker in a purple jacket walks along a rugged trail through windswept highland terrain, with a white trail marker bearing two red stripes in the foreground. The cloudy sky and expansive grassy landscape create a remote, moody atmosphere.
A seabird soars over a dramatic coastal landscape with steep cliffs, rocky outcrops, and turquoise waves crashing below. Windswept vegetation and flowering plants frame the foreground under a partly cloudy sky, capturing the wild beauty of this remote island scene.
A group of hikers climbs a grassy, windswept hillside under a vibrant sky filled with white and blue clouds. The trail cuts through thick tussock grass, and each person carries a backpack, moving upward through the rugged subantarctic landscape.
Two people hike through a dense, fern-filled forest trail surrounded by thick, green foliage and tall bushy trees. The vegetation appears lush and slightly damp, giving the scene a wild, almost untouched atmosphere.
Three albatrosses are seen on a windswept grassy hillside under a cloudy sky—two perched on the slope and one gliding above with wings outstretched. The dramatic scene highlights their coastal habitat and the open, untamed environment.
A group of hikers walks single file along a narrow trail through dense tussock grass and coastal vegetation on a cliffside overlooking turquoise waves. Towering white cliffs and a sweeping grassy plateau stretch into the distance under a partly cloudy sky.
A line of hikers climbs a narrow, rocky gorge flanked by steep, vegetation-covered cliffs with tufts of tussock grass and ferns. The group uses trekking poles for balance as they ascend through the rugged, remote terrain under an overcast sky.
A group of hikers rests on a steep, grassy hillside dotted with tussock and low shrubs under a bright blue sky with wispy clouds. Some sit while others stand, taking in the expansive, rugged landscape with rocky peaks visible in the distance.

The next day, we walked along another trail that was marked the entire way with a boardwalk. Southern Royal albatrosses nested right next to the boardwalk, undeterred by the sudden foot traffic.

As the afternoon lingered on, more and more albatrosses showed up at the top of the ridge to fly. It felt like an airport at the top! It was great to have so much free time on Campbell to really soak it in and have some alone time in nature.

Three hikers walk through a vast, open valley covered in low vegetation, with winding hills leading to a distant inlet and the deep blue ocean. The expansive view and layered terrain capture the remote and untouched beauty of the subantarctic landscape.
A narrow, winding boardwalk made of metal mesh cuts through tall, windblown tussock grass in a remote highland landscape. The trail disappears into the distance, inviting exploration through the rugged subantarctic terrain.
A close-up of a subantarctic megaherb, likely a Ross lily (Bulbinella rossii), showing its dense cluster of small reddish-brown buds atop a central stalk. Bright green, fleshy leaves radiate outward in a star-like pattern, glistening with moisture.
A wandering albatross glides gracefully through a clear blue sky, its long wings outstretched with dark tips contrasting against its white body. The bird’s effortless flight highlights its mastery of soaring over vast ocean distances.
Two hikers walk along the crest of a grassy, flower-dotted ridge under a dramatic sky, with low purple wildflowers scattered across the windblown subantarctic landscape. Their silhouettes stand out against the bright clouds, emphasizing the scale and openness of the terrain.
A narrow boardwalk trail winds through a vast, open landscape of dense shrubs and tall tussock grasses, disappearing into the distance. The muted tones and overcast light evoke the remote and wild feel of a subantarctic island ecosystem.
A smiling woman in hiking gear takes a selfie on a boardwalk trail winding through a grassy, subantarctic landscape with rugged hills in the background. She wears a cap, glasses, and a colorful scarf, with a camera strapped across her chest, capturing the adventure in a remote and wild setting.

Planning Your Subantarctic Islands Cruise

Do not overlook these remote New Zealand islands when you plan a trip to New Zealand. If the South Island blows you away, the Subantarctic islands will completely reset your idea of “wild.”

To venture even further south to Antarctica, start with my guide to how a cruise to Antarctica works then check out my Macquarie Island wildlife story. After that, read about what to do in Antarctica besides view wildlife and my Antarctica packing list to plan your own Subantarctic adventure.

FAQs

Can you visit these islands without a cruise?

The short answer is no. Access is by small expedition cruise; these are not ferry, flight, or rental-car destinations.

How long is a Subantarctic Islands cruise from New Zealand?

Most itineraries run for 10-12 days, depending on the route and ocean and weather conditions.

Are landings guaranteed on every island?

No. Landings depend on weather and regulations. For example, The Snares is completely off-limits for landing and you can only view it from the water in a Zodiac.

Why are these islands protected?

They are ecologically unique, rarely visited and recognized for their natural value, which is why they are designated UNESCO World Heritage sites and access is limited.

What are landings like and do you need to be very fit?

You usually land by Zodiac and walk along uneven terrain. Hikes can be pretty substantial and difficult – probably best for experienced and strong hikers.

How many New Zealand islands are there?

Officially, New Zealand has about 600 islands in total, including the ones in this post. Significant islands aside from the main North and South Islands are Stewart Island, the Chatham Islands, and Great Barrier Island, and smaller islands such as Poor Knights Islands, Mercury Island, Kapiti Island, and D’Urville Island, or Rangitoto in Maori, are just a handful of the many islands.

How to Travel to the New Zealand Subantarctic Islands?

If you don’t have the time to go to Antarctica, check out the cruises that take you to the New Zealand Islands via Heritage Expeditions – Subantarctic Islands Cruises.

How rough is the weather and sea crossing?

The islands are located in the “Roaring Forties and Furious Fifties,” roughly 47-55 degrees South latitude. So, you can expect cold, wet, and windy conditions and seas that change frequently.

What wildlife can you see on these remote New Zealand islands?

Wildlife varies by island, but there are penguins, albatross, sea lions, and elephant seals on an itinerary like this one.

What Photo Equipment Should You Bring for the Subantarctic Islands?

See my complete list of favorite Travel Photography Gear

Disclosure:
I was a guest of Heritage Expeditions on this trip, however all opinions are my own.

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