Cyclones occasionally wreak havoc. The Kermadecs are uninhabited apart from Raoul Island where Department of Conservation officers and volunteers are based. They undertake a range of tasks, including weather observation, weed control, reserve and facilities maintenance, and monitoring volcanic activity. As rangers, the staff also have responsibility for policing the rules of the nature and marine reserves. The staff hostel and weather station is based on the northern terraces of Raoul.
Landing normally occurs at Fishing Rock, east of the hostel site.
The islands of the Kermadec Group are all of international conservation significance. All the islands in the Kermadec group, except Raoul, are extremely fragile, and cannot withstand even low numbers of visitors. Therefore permits to land will only be given to people who propose to undertake work which will assist either the management or understanding of the islands' ecosystems. Raoul Island is a little more robust, so permits to land are available to people who have a genuine interest in its natural and cultural history. Visitors to any of the islands require a landing permit - apply to the Department of Conservation, Auckland.