The New Zealand Sub-Antarctic Islands consist of five island groups in the Southern Ocean south-east of New Zealand. The islands have a high level of productivity, biodiversity, wildlife population densities and endemism amount birds, plants, and invertebrates. Along with being a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sub-Antarctic Islands have been designated as a Hope Spot by Mission Blue. They are particularly notable for the large number and diversity of pelagic seabirds and penguins that nest there. There are 126 bird species in total, including 40 seabirds of which five breed nowhere else in the world. The islands are also a breeding ground for many other species, including the southern right whale and the New Zealand Sea Lion.
In March 2014, this campaign resulted in the designation of three new high seas marine reserves in New Zealand. The new reserves, covering 435,000ha in all, protect ocean territory around Campbell Island, the Antipodes Island and the Bounty Islands.
