Subantarctic Islands
Landings and Permits.
Where you can go ashore, where you cannot, and who holds the paperwork.
Landings are strictly controlled by New Zealand’s Department of Conservation (DOC), and access is typically included as part of a registered expedition cruise permit. Landings are restricted to Enderby Island and Campbell Island. No landings are permitted at the Snares, which are seen by Zodiac cruise. The permit is held by the operator, not the traveler.
The permit sits with the operator
Travelers do not apply for their own permits. Access is granted through the operator’s registered expedition cruise permit, issued by the Department of Conservation, which is why independent visits are not possible.
Yes, landings are strictly controlled by the Department of Conservation (DOC). Access is typically included as part of a registered expedition cruise permit. Because these islands are highly protected National Nature Reserves, you cannot visit them independently.
Where landings are allowed
Landings are restricted to Enderby Island in the Auckland group and to Campbell Island. Enderby offers a boardwalk through Rata forest to Yellow-eyed Penguin nesting grounds and the sea lion beaches of Sandy Bay; Campbell holds megaherbs and Southern Royal Albatross.
Where you stay in the Zodiac
No landings are permitted at the Snares. The group is seen by Zodiac cruise, because the soil is so fragile and honeycombed with the burrows of millions of Sooty Shearwaters that walking would crush them.
Frequently asked questions
- Do I need a permit to visit the Subantarctic Islands?
- Yes, landings are strictly controlled by the Department of Conservation (DOC). Access is typically included as part of a registered expedition cruise permit.
- Can I land at the Snares?
- No. No landings are permitted at the Snares. The islands are seen by Zodiac cruise instead, because the soil is honeycombed with seabird burrows.
- Who holds the permit — me or the ship?
- The permit is held by the operator, not the traveler. You travel under the operator's registered expedition cruise permit.
Back to New Zealand’s Subantarctic Islands.
Written by your expedition advisor
Chris Commisso · Expedition Expert
Chris and Erika have personally sailed 18 expedition ships and explored eight expedition regions.
Last updated .
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