Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Macquarie Island World Heritage Site is a remote place located halfway between New Zealand and Antarctica, under the jurisdiction of Australia. Known for its unique geological activity, the island is the only place on earth where rocks from the earth’s mantle are actively exposed above sea level. This site plays a significant role in biodiversity, hosting large colonies of royal, king, and gentoo penguins, as well as elephant seals and albatrosses. First discovered in 1810 by Frederic Hasselborough, the island has a rich history as a sealing ground. Today, the island is a critical conservation area, offering limited access to scientists and a select number of tourists. Its isolated nature provides a pristine environment, making it a hotspot for ecological research. With no permanent human inhabitants, it offers a unique, undisturbed habitat that contributes significantly to our understanding of subantarctic ecosystems.