Hon Ruth Dyson
MP for Banks Peninsula
17 August 2006 Media Statement
Christchurch MPs support city keeping Antarctic air link
Christchurch's government Members of Parliament today announced their support for Mayor Garry Moore's efforts to keep
the United States Air Force Antarctic support unit.
This is in response to Australian Environment Minister Senator Ian Campbell claiming a new runway being built in
Antarctica will appeal more to America than the current runway at McMurdo.
The new runway, when completed, will be able to land passenger jets which would fly from Hobart, but it is some distance
away from the New Zealand and American bases in Antarctica.
Christchurch has provided access to Antarctica for the US air force support unit for more than 50 years, in return for
support for this country's own Antarctic programme.
"Our two countries have traditionally co-operated in Antarctica and we support Mayor Moore one hundred percent in
wanting to ensure this relationship continues," says Banks Peninsula MP Ruth Dyson.
All major expeditions to Antarctica have left from New Zealand and the Labour-led government would like to see this
proud Kiwi tradition upheld.
ENDS