Updated at 4:11 pm today
A big storm has forced a scientific expedition to the sub-Antarctic islands to turn back to New Zealand.
HMNZS Wellington's first arrival into Devonport Naval Base.
Photo: DEFENCE FORCE
HMNZS Wellington left Bluff on Sunday on its annual service trip to the Bounty, Antipodes, Campbell, Auckland and Snares islands.
Conservation Minister Nick Smith is among those on board.
His office says strong winds and massive swells have forced the ship to turn back and the crew are waiting for the weather to let up so they can decide whether to continue the trip.
Dr Smith is expected to launch a new pest control programme and formally open three new marine reserves during the expedition.