^{Photo Credit: Jake Osborne}

Whenua Hou, also known as Codfish Island, is a special conservation island off New Zealand’s South Island, mainly known for protecting endangered species like the kākāpō.

Located off the coast of Stewart Island, Whenua Hou is managed by New Zealand’s Department of Conservation (DOC) and is strictly off-limits to tourists, maintaining an environment that is as close to its natural state as possible.

Only a few researchers, DOC staff, and carefully selected volunteers are allowed to visit, all under tight biosecurity measures to prevent any risks to the wildlife.

This level of protection is critical for preserving New Zealand's unique biodiversity, as the island is one of the few places where some endangered species can thrive without threats from invasive predators.

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