A Christchurch travel company's plans to run crusies to the sub-Antartctic islands now look "dead in the water".
The cruise ship Le Laperouse which had been chartered for the voyages was banned from entering New Zealand waters late last week because 61 of the boat's 90-strong foreign crew did not have visas and were not deemed to be essential workers.
It has since sailed to Noumea, is low on fuel and has no permission to dock.
Wild Earth Travel general manager Aaron Russ speaks to Susie Ferguson via satellite phone from Fiordland.