What Is Campbell Island/ Motu Ihupuku Known For? Tour Of An Isolated Sanctuary In New Zealand

Jun 30, 2025

Last Updated on: Jul 10, 2025

Travel Guides

Campbell Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to sea lions and many other species of endangered animals and birds. 

However, the Department of Conservation (DOC) has identified that growing temperatures in this region and increased rainfall are posing threats to the rich ecosystem here. 

Extensive rainfall events and slips will potentially have the biggest impact on nesting birds. We’d also like to find out more about how sea level rise and storm surges will affect sea lions.”

– Drew Bingham, Principal Science Advisor, the Department of Conservation. 

It’s indeed a grave concern, as it is home to many marine and terrestrial animals and is even crucial for global environmental conservation. 

Also, it has fascinating stories of history and human intervention to share. So, the changing weather conditions of the island put a lot at stake. 

Nevertheless, Campbell Island is a popular destination for tourists seeking adventures in the subantarctic zones. Hundreds of people visit this destination every year. 

And in this Tour and Travel Blog, we will discuss what’s so special in Campbell Island, a fascinating story of shark attack and survival, and everything else you need to know. 

What Is The Best Time To Visit Campbell Island? 

What Is The Best Time To Visit Campbell Island 

One of the best Subantarctic Islands of New Zealand, Campbell Island, is ideal for a visit from November to March. These months make the island ideal for traveling because of:

  • Long daylight hours
  • Mild weather and calmer sea
  • Ideal for cruising along the coastline
  • Great for spotting wildlife such as seals, penguins, and albatrosses

Moreover, the temperature in these months ranges between 5 and 12 degrees Celsius. 

Do you want to know more about the weather of Campbell Island throughout the year? Have a look at the table below.

MonthsHighest TemperatureLowest TemperatureDays of Rainfall
January13616
February12714
March11617
April10518
May9420
June7319
July7218
August6419
September7318
October8420
November9517
December11616

What Is Campbell Island Famous For? Know Why It Is Worth The Adventurous Journey

Captain Frederick Hasselburgh discovered Campbell Island in 1810. With time, it became an important location for scientific observation, whaling, and sealing. 

It was also used as a coastwatching station after World War II. With time, Campbell Island became a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and today, it has emerged as a popular subantarctic region for the following reasons. 

1. Dramatic Geographical Features 

  • Area: 113 Square Kilometers
  • Population: Uninhabited
  • Shape: Oval
  • Highest Point: Mount Honey (568 Meters)

The uninhabited Campbell Island features deep coastal bays, rocky outcrops, and steep cliffs. 

Further, thanks to its volcanic origin and the cooling and solidification of lava over a million years, this island has geographical features such as:

  • Peat bogs
  • Freshwater lakes 
  • Volcanic craters

Furthermore, due to its volcanic origin, this island has become home to many unique ecosystems uncommon in the subantarctic region. 

2. Campbell Island And Its Rich Natural Heritage

Campbell Island has many endangered species of plants and animals. They have contributed to the biodiversity of the island. 

Campbell Island cabbage (Azorella selago) is the most prominent name when we talk about the diversity of flora on the island. It worked as a source of food for explorers and settlers. 

Among the endangered fauna here, the Campbell Island teal birds are the most prominent. Other popular species are the yellow-eyed penguin, petrels, and albatross. 

Furthermore, elephant seals, dolphins, and various species of fish here speak volumes about the rich marine life. 

3. Conservation And Restoration Efforts In Campbell Island

The New Zealand government established the Campbell Island Nature Reserve in 2001. It banned human habitation and various development works here. 

Also, the Department of Conservation has played a critical role in protecting the delicate ecosystem of the island. 

In this context, the rat eradication program from 2001-2003 has been a milestone achievement. 

With all these conservation efforts, the island now has a growing bird population. Also, many other islands have taken Campbell Island as the benchmark for ecological restoration and development.

What Are The Things To Do In Campbell Island? 

A close interaction with nature and adventurous activities have been the best things to do on Campbell Island. 

You can also enjoy a cruise tour along the coastline. 

Things to Do in Campbell IslandWhat’s So Special about Them?
Birdwatching• Southern royal albatrosses (Campbell Island is home to the largest breeding population.)
• Black-browed albatrosses
• Grey-headed albatrosses
• Endangered bird species such as Campbell snipe and Campbell teal
• Terns
• Pipits
• Giant petrels
A visit to the Campbell Island National ParkYou will love the tree ferns and orchids here. 
Zodiac cruisingCruise along the coastline to spot elephant seals and various bird species. 
Hiking to Mount HoneyOnce you reach the mountain top, you will love the panoramic view of the island. 
Hiking to Northwest BayIt is a 16-km hike to explore the natural landscape of the island. 
Col Lyall BoardwalkYou will spot Southern Royal Albatrosses as you walk the boardwalk. 

Campbell Island Shark Attack: What Happened In 1992?

Mike Fraser, a meteorologist from New Zealand, encountered a great white shark attack while snorkeling near Campbell Island. 

The shark cut off his right forearm, and his left arm was also severely injured.

After a dramatic rescue mission and a 2,000-kilometer helicopter flight, Mike Fraser was saved. 

He then underwent prolonged medical treatment and got prosthetic arms. It’s great that he survived.

Campbell Island: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about Campbell Island. 

1. Can You Go To Campbell Island?

Yes, you can go to Campbell Island. However, due to the remote location of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, you have to visit the island on a guided expedition cruise. 
You can also visit the island on a helicopter. 

2. How Many People Live On Campbell Island?

There is no permanent human population on Campbell Island. 

3. Is Campbell Island Predator Free?

Yes, Campbell Island is predator-free. It had the largest rat eradication movement from 2001 to 2003. 
In May 2003, the Department of Conservation declared Campbell Island predator-free. 

4. Does It Snow On Campbell Island?

Yes, the high peaks of Campbell Island, with Mount Honey being the highest, experience snowfall during spring and winter. 

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Sibashree is a travel, culture, and leisure writer who has been writing since the age of 12 and professionally since 2014. With more than a decade of travel writing experience and journeys across India and several parts of the world, she brings a deeply personal and thoughtful perspective to her work. A student of English Literature and Mass Communication, Sibashree has always viewed travel as more than movement — for her, it has been a way of understanding people, cultures, and herself. Her passion for spiritual exploration has also led her to many unusual and meaningful destinations over the years. Outside of writing, Sibashree enjoys watching European cinema, reading about global politics, and reflecting on the stories hidden within everyday places.

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