Logistics Support Request
Logistics support requests
There are two critical steps for scientists to take before they can conduct research with New Zealand’s Antarctic Science Programme:
1. Obtain research funding
2. Obtain logistical support (for those with a field component)
Research Funding
There are a number of ways that scientists can access funds for the research component of their work, to cover costs such as salaries, equipment, analyses and consumables. These include funds from government agencies such as MBIE, MPI, and the Marsden Fund. Antarctica New Zealand awards postgraduate scholarships annually in order to support the next generation of Antarctic researchers. For more information, please contact Jordy Hendrikx, our Chief Scientific Advisor.
Logistical Support
One of Antarctica New Zealand’s core functions is to support science in Antarctica by providing logistical support. Scientists who have field work in Antarctica need to submit a Logistics Support Request to Antarctica New Zealand when they apply for research funding. This enables Antarctica New Zealand to assess the logistical feasibility, alignment with Government science priorities, environmental impact and the outreach opportunities associated with the proposed research. For more information, please contact Esme Robinson, our Science Programme Advisor.
Daily-on-ice charges
Antarctica New Zealand charges a daily fee for each researcher during their time in Antarctica.
This nominal charge contributes towards the cost of items with a personal benefit such as meals, internet access and merino base layer clothing.
It’s been five years since the last increase, and due to rising costs, the organisation is faced with the necessity of adjusting this charge.
The daily-on-ice charge will increase from $100 per person per day, to $130 per person per day excluding GST in the 2025/26 season. These daily charges represent only a small percentage of the actual costs of supporting the work in Antarctica.
This decision was not taken lightly, and we acknowledge these charges have an impact on event budgets. However, the current economic climate with rising costs of food and consumables leaves us with no choice but to implement this adjustment.
We wanted to provide a year’s notice, so have absorbed the increase for the coming season and the cost change will only come into effect from the 2025/26 season. For clarity, the 2024/25 season remains at the current rate of $100 per person per day.
Our priority remains the safety and well-being of everyone on ice, and we are committed to providing the best support possible. We will review this charge as necessary and endeavour to keep it as low as possible going forward.