About Antarctica New Zealand

Vision: Antarctica and the Southern Ocean: valued, protected, understood

Purpose: Advancing knowledge, appreciation and conservation, of Antarctica and the Southern Ocean for the benefit of New Zealand and the world community, through leadership, partnership, and involvement in high quality Antarctic-related activities.

Following a 1994 review which recognised the strategic importance of Antarctica to New Zealand as a Southern Hemisphere nation, the New Zealand Antarctic Institute, known as Antarctica New Zealand, was established on 1 July 1996 under the New Zealand Antarctic Institute Act 1996.  It is responsible for:

• developing;
• managing; and
• administering

New Zealand's activities in Antarctica and the Southern Ocean, particularly the Ross Sea region.

Antarctica New Zealand is also responsible for facilitating New Zealand scientific research, and providing sound environmental stewardship. In addition to supporting scientific research through logistics planning, and scholarships, Antarctica New Zealand runs arts, media and youth programmes. These increase public awareness and appreciation of Antarctica and its conservation values. 

Antarctica New Zealand is responsible for the year-round management of Scott Base, New Zealand's permanent base in Antarctica since 1959. The Base provides services and accommodation for the many research parties and groups who visit Antarctica during the summer. 

Antarctica New Zealand's Statement of Intent, which sets out its programme for the next 3 years, can be downloaded below.

The Annual Report details the work of Antarctica New Zealand, including scientific highlights and environmental initiatives. It also reports on education, media, the artists' programme and our international involvement in Antarctic Treaty forums. The latest Annual report can be downloaded below.

A brief overview of New Zealand's involvement in Antarctica can be downloaded below, or for more information visit our anniversary website.