South, Way South

Christchurch was our last stop in New Zealand before heading to Mongolia. Because of Christchurch's southern location, it is a jumping off point for expeditions to Antarctica. Both the US's McMurdo Station and New Zealand's Scott Base are accessed from air via Christchurch. As a result, there is a major training and supply center located at the airport. We had the chance to visit the International Antarctica Centre just as we were leaving. This center provides regular folks like me the chance to experience the harsh conditions of Antarctica and to learn more about the research that goes on on the southern most continent of the world. Did you know that body hair grows twice as fast in Antarctica? Why do you think that might be? If you spend time in Antarctica, especially in the winter, you are also likely to gain weight. Your body works to create an extra layer of fat around your organs to protect them from the cold. In the simulation room, we got to experience what being in a wind storm in Antarctica would be like. Brrrrrrrr. We also got a chance to take a ride in a Hagglund, the extreme terrain vehicles used to get around in the unique conditions in Antarctica. These vehicles can travel over large crevices in the ice, through deep water and on steep inclines. The ride was bumpy, but exciting and it was a great way to say goodbye to New Zealand!