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<\/p>\nBy Madleine CarrWhite, Massey Journalism Student<\/p>\n
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\nThe USGC Polar Star has operated in Antarctica for the past 55 days.
\nPhoto: RNZ\/Mark Papalii\n<\/p>\n
A United States Coast Guard icebreaker has sailed into Wellington harbour after working with New Zealand in Antarctica.<\/p>\n
The USGC Polar Star, celebrating its 50th year of service, has operated in Antarctica for the past 55 days resupplying New Zealand’s Scott Base, among other duties.<\/p>\n
Two New Zealand sailors joined the American crew to participate in this year’s Polar Star’s deployment, Operation Deep Freeze.<\/p>\n
Polar Star cuts channels through thick ice, creating access for ships to reach Antarctic research stations and bases.<\/p>\n
David Gehrenbeck, the US Charge d’Affaires, said the arrival of the ship highlights the relationship between the United States and New Zealand.<\/p>\n
“Each time Polar Star arrives in Wellington, it’s a reminder of the strong partnership and shared commitment between the United States and New Zealand in Antarctica,” he said.<\/p>\n
“Royal New Zealand Navy sea riders have become an integral part of these missions. Their expertise and upbeat approach are always appreciated by everyone on board.”<\/p>\n
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\nThe USGC Polar Star in Wellington harbour.
\nPhoto: RNZ\/Mark Papalii\n<\/p>\n
Earlier this year marked the end of a multi-year effort between New Zealand and the United States, with the Polar Star delivering a new pier for scientific research at McMurdo Station.<\/p>\n
Gehrenbeck said that the ship’s mission involves more than supporting scientific research.<\/p>\n
“It’s about making sure people and supplies can move safely, so our hard-working teams are supported and research at the bottom of the world never stops.”<\/p>\n
In January, the Polar Star crew performed a six-hour rescue operation for the cruise ship Scenic Eclipse II, which was trapped in ice near McMurdo Sound.<\/p>\n
Over the past decade, the ship has regularly docked in New Zealand when sailing to and from Antarctica.<\/p>\n