Port Ross

Port Ross is a natural harbour located at the southern end of Auckland Island, part of the New Zealand Subantarctic Islands. It is situated within the Auckland Island group, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Historically significant, Port Ross served as a base for sealing and whaling activities during the 19th century. The area witnessed intense exploitation of marine resources, leaving lasting impacts on the local ecosystem and introduced flora and fauna to the islands. Enderby Settlement, an attempt at establishing a permanent agricultural settlement, was located at Port Ross in the 1840s but was ultimately abandoned due to the harsh climate and challenging conditions.

Today, Port Ross is primarily of scientific and historical interest. Access is tightly controlled, requiring permits from the New Zealand Department of Conservation (DOC) due to the ecological sensitivity of the area and its protected status. Research activities focusing on the subantarctic environment, including studies of seabirds, marine mammals, and vegetation, are frequently conducted in and around Port Ross. Remnants of the former settlement and sealing/whaling era can still be found, serving as a tangible link to the island's past.