Plans for Blake Station confirmed by Minister of Conservation
The Sir Peter Blake Trust is thrilled by the Minister of Conservation's announcement today that the new scientific
research station, to be built on the Subantarctic Auckland Islands, will be named for one of New Zealand's greatest
leaders, Sir Peter Blake.
“We feel that all New Zealanders will have a connection to this critical research base, through its identity as "Blake
Station" and its association with one of our most inspiring and regarded New Zealanders,” says Sir Peter Blake Trust
CEO, Shelley Campbell.
In his later life Sir Peter launched Blake Expeditions, with the intention of driving education and awareness about the
fragility of the global marine environment. During his sailing career, Sir Peter began to notice significant
environmental changes, particularly in what he called "hotspots," such as the Southern Ocean, which were areas that had
a significant impact with regard to their marine health on the rest of the planet. For example, the numbers of albatross
he would see during Southern Ocean voyages became far fewer over the years and Sir Peter understood that there must be
some critical changes taking place to have such a detrimental effect on this magnificent species.
Last month, the Sir Peter Blake Trust launched the first of two planned Subantarctic Young Blake Expeditions to the
Auckland Islands, an area that has been identified as a key indicator for measuring changes in the earth's climate. The
twelve 16-18 year old young leaders selected to join the expedition were a key part of drafting the feasibility study
for Blake Station, which will allow New Zealand scientists and worldwide agencies to work together towards understanding
the effect of ocean and climate change and what the impact will be on New Zealand’s environment, biodiversity and
economy.
“The 12 young leaders, representing high schools across New Zealand, worked with Deep South National Science Challenge
lead and Blake Leader, Professor Gary Wilson, on conducting the surveys and research required for Blake Station and we
know Sir Peter would be incredibly proud of the outstanding efforts they contributed to the proposal,” added Ms
Campbell.
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