Publications
A note on movements of southern right whales between the sub-Antarctic Auckland and Campbell Islands, New Zealand
Research reveals that southern right whales between the sub-Antarctic Auckland and Campbell Islands, New Zealand, are part of one intermingling population. Analysis of 248 whale photographs identified three individuals first seen at the Auckland Islands in 1995 or 1996, later observed at Campbell Island in 1997, while another whale sighted at Campbell Island in 1995 was recorded at the Auckland Islands later that winter. This marks the first evidence of both within- and between-year movements, challenging previous assumptions about distinct populations. The study used photographic identification to track individual whales, providing insights into their migratory behavior across these sub-Antarctic habitats.
Population status and habitat use of southern right whales in the sub-Antarctic Auckland Islands of New Zealand
Southern right whales exhibit strong habitat preference and social behavior in the Auckland Islands, indicating their role as a primary wintering ground. Research from 1995 to 1997 revealed high whale density (up to 146 individuals) in shallow nearshore waters, with 12% of the population consisting of cow-calf pairs. Molecular sexing showed no significant female-to-male ratio bias, while social/sexual activity dominated in groups of three or more whales. Photo-identification tracked 217 individuals, with resightings suggesting some seasonal movement to nearby Campbell Island. The study highlights a potential shift in habitat use post-exploitation, contrasting the rarity of these whales on New Zealand's main islands.
Geology and geochronology of the Sub-Antarctic Snares Islands/Tini Heke, New Zealand
A groundbreaking geological map and radiogenic isotope data reveal the Sub-Antarctic Snares Islands/Tini Heke, New Zealand, are composed primarily of the Snares Granite (c. 109 Ma) intruding Broughton Granodiorite (c. 114 Ma). The study identifies schistose rafts within the granite, suggesting a meta-igneous origin, and confirms no conclusive metasedimentary rocks exist despite sillimanite-bearing mica-rich schists on Rua. Deformation occurred between 95–109 Ma, overlapping with extensional ductile shear zones on Stewart Island. Additionally, basaltic dykes indicate volcanic activity across all Sub-Antarctic island groups, with larger islands capped by peat and gravel deposits.
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