Kate Green/Stuff
Principal scientists Dr Matt Pinkerton, left, Dr Richard O'Driscoll, right, and ice pilot Evan Solly, centre, in front of NIWA flagship Tangaroa ahead of its departure to Antarctica.
“This year we are focused on understanding the key processes that drive the environment and oceanography of the region and assessing the potential impacts of climate change.”
On board is a team of 40, including 20 science staff, 18 crew, one doctor, and one ice pilot, to return on February 17.
The whole crew felt “incredibly lucky”, O’Driscoll said, to be setting off considering Covid-19 was stalling expeditions around the world.
All onboard were tested for coronavirus ahead of departure, and an on-board quick testing machine would be used if anyone displayed symptoms.