Successful budget for Scott Base

Antarctica New Zealand is thrilled the Government has committed $344 million to rebuild New Zealand’s home in Antarctica, Scott Base.

The announcement has just been made by the Minister of Foreign Affairs Hon. Nanaia Mahuta, as part of Budget 2021.

The funding covers capital investment of $306 million, including the replacement of the windfarm and project operating costs of $38 million.

The money will be used to replace the existing base and redevelop the Ross Island Wind Farm.

Antarctica New Zealand Chief Executive Sarah Williamson says it’s a significant milestone.

“This funding is vital to secure New Zealand’s future in Antarctica and our ability to continue to support world-leading science.

“The Scott Base Redevelopment project is the biggest project we’ve ever embarked on, and as well as future proofing our home on the ice, it brings many millions of dollars to the Canterbury economy,” she says.

Antarctica New Zealand Senior Project Manager Simon Shelton says the team is primed and ready to go.

“After four years of design work and careful planning, we’re ready to redevelop.

“The current plan is to build the new base in sections at a New Zealand port, then ship those modules to Antarctica,” he says.

Before construction can begin, the Government will need to confirm the Implementation Business Case and the Draft Comprehensive Environmental Evaluation will need to be approved by the Minister of Foreign Affairs.

ENDS

Media: For more information, contact g.nelson@antarcticanz.govt.nz

Quick facts about the Scott Base Redevelopment Project

• The current base, built in the early 80s and made up of 12 buildings will be replaced with three interconnected buildings.
• The new base can accommodate up to 100 people.
• The new base will consist of an accommodation, dining and welfare building, a science and management building and an engineering and storage building.
• It will be built in the same location as the existing base on Ross Island
• Antarctica New Zealand is committed to continuing to support science throughout the redevelopment.
• The preferred main contractor is Canterbury based Leigh’s Construction.
• The base was designed by Jasmax and Hugh Broughton Architects.
• In Budget 2019, Antarctica New Zealand received $18.5 million to complete the developed design.