New Zealand to help conserve Norway’s Antarctic Heritage

New Zealand to help conserve Norway’s Antarctic Heritage

Norway will support New Zealand expertise to secure the only remaining link to Norway’s ‘heroic-age’ polar history in Antarctica.

In a media statement New Zealand Prime Minister John Key welcomed Norwegian Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg’s announcement today of NOK$4 million (NZD$900,000.00) funding for the Antarctic Heritage Trust to help conserve Norwegian explorer Carsten Borchgrevink’s 1899 expedition base at Cape Adare, Antarctica.

“Norway and New Zealand have a history of strong cooperation on Antarctic issues,” says Mr Key. “This four-year project is a chance to preserve an important piece of heritage, and Norway’s generous support for this project is greatly appreciated.”

Prefabricated in Norway this little known site includes the first buildings ever constructed on the Antarctic continent. With Roald Amundsen’s ‘Framheim’ base lost this is the only link in Antarctica to his expedition.

The news of funding support was welcomed by the Antarctic Heritage Trust. “We are extremely grateful for the Norwegian Government’s confidence in our expertise. The Trust has an extensive track record in conserving ‘heroic age’ polar buildings and their collections from the same era. We are looking forward to conserving this valuable part of history despite the logistical challenges of this site,” says Rt Hon Paul East, Chair, Antarctic Heritage Trust.

The Trust will seek funds internationally to complete the multi year programme of works needed on site to conserve the building and its extensive artefact collection.

ENDS

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