The existing science strategy: New Zealand Science in Antarctica and the Southern Ocean (2004-2009) is currently being revised. 

A working Group was assembled by the Antarctica NZ and Foundation for Research, Science & Technology’s Boards to redraft the strategy.  The most recent draft was developed by the Working Group following consultation with some Government agencies and the Antarctic science community.  The draft has been signed off by the Antarctica NZ Board and the Foundation for Research, Science and Technology’s Chief Executive Officer.  Following this, the draft has been to the Antarctic Policy Unit at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade, which consulted with the Officials' Antarctic Committee.  It was presented to Cabinet by the Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Research, Science & Technology and following Cabinet endorsement, is now released for public consultation.

SCIENCE STRATEGY CONSULTATION

The draft Science Strategy: New Zealand Antarctic and Southern Ocean Science Directions and Priorities 2010 - 2020 is now available for public consultation. It is anticipated that the document, if adopted, would provide a coherent strategy to guide New Zealand Government agencies in investing in research in Antarctica and the Southern Ocean over the next ten years.

Written submissions (both paper and electronic) are requested by Friday 6 August 2010.  The Consultation letter and draft Strategy document are available for download below.