Italy and New Zealand in Antarctica
The Antarctic Research Centre at Victoria University and the Embassy of Italy held a series of short presentations last week, to celebrate the long history of collaboration between Italy and New Zealand in Antarctica.
The Antarctic Research Centre at Victoria University and the Embassy of Italy held a series of short presentations last week, to celebrate the long history of collaboration between Italy and New Zealand in Antarctica.
The event was the first formal celebration of this relationship, and was attended by a number of dignitaries including the Italian Ambassador His Excellency Carmelo Barbarello.
Attendees were treated to talks from three Italians who have just arrived in New Zealand from Antarctic fieldwork, and five New Zealanders, of which three were also in Antarctica this season, as well as a panel discussion moderated by Professor Tim Naish, Antarctic Research Centre Director.
The event was held to highlight the important research both countries undertake to protect the continent, says Professor Naish.
“Antarctica has significant scientific value and is very unique, but it is also a challenging environment to work in. The collaboration with Italy lets us carry out more scientific research because we can work together to share resources and expertise.”
Professor Mike Wilson, Pro Vice-Chancellor of Science, Engineering, Architecture and Design, says the relationship between Italy and New Zealand is something to be celebrated.
“New Zealand and Italy are close neighbours in the Ross Sea. Italy’s Mario Zuchelli Station lies an hour’s flight north of New Zealand’s Scott Base and there has been a strong history of collaboration between the Italian and New Zealand scientists for more than 30 years.
“Both countries have collaborated on international geological drilling projects that have helped us better understand the Antarctic ice sheet and climate history and the Ross Sea oceanography and ecosystem.”
At the event Professor Peter Barrett also announced the DVD launch of Thin Ice—the Inside Story of Climate Science with subtitles in 10 languages, including Italian. The first copy was presented to the Italian Ambassador.