[en] Highlights: • The world's subantarctic islands are rare and ecologically distinct. • Increasing tourism, fishing, oil exploration and shipping is increasing the risk of oil spills. • Oiled wildlife response options for New Zealand's subantarctic Islands are discussed. • There are obvious logistical constraints for remote areas. • However, with planning, greater protection for these unique areas can be achieved. The world's subantarctic islands are rare, ecologically distinct ecosystems with geographical and climahemistic challenges for undertaking emergency response. Their remoteness has somewhat protected them and their flora and fauna from environmental pollution threats and impacts. However, with increasing tourism, fishing, oil and gas exploration and shipping routes, the risk of accidents and petroleum spills has exponentially increased. This review explores the uniqueness of New Zealand's (NZ) subantarctic islands, their oil spill threats and the legislation protecting them. Then using this background information; use the NZ subantarctic islands as examples to understand oiled wildlife response options for subantarctic islands. There are obvious logistical constraints on ability to respond in these remote areas. However, with planning, including preparation of specialised plans, equipment and readiness of skilled response personnel; the conservation outcomes for these ecologically significant, isolated areas, is greater preparedness and protection with the increased ability to respond effectively.

[en] Highlights: • The MV Rena spill was small in world terms, releasing 350 t of heavy fuel oil. • Environmental effects are documented however, little is known of economic impacts. • Direct costs are estimated using response costs, fisheries and tourism losses. • Net losses demonstrate that small spills can impact economies. • This research adds to the limited economic reports regarding small/medium oil spills. The MV Rena ran aground on the 5 October 2011 off the coast of New Zealand, releasing over 350 t of heavy fuel oil. The environmental effects of this spill are well documented, however, little research has been undertaken regarding the short term economic losses observed because of the spill. By looking at pre- and post-spill trends for commercial fisheries and tourism in the area, as well as the clean-up and restoration costs, the direct costs associated with the MV Rena oil spill can be estimated. Overall, net losses of NZD 45,479,017 were observed. This research adds to the limited economic reports regarding small/medium oil spills, and demonstrates that even these smaller spills are capable of having a sizeable impact on local economies.