MEDIA RELEASE
31 October 2017

A talented young Aucklander is packing his bags to head to the ice on 4 November after being awarded a coveted Blake Antarctic Ambassadorship.

Chris Ansin (25) will spend five weeks supporting the Antarctic Heritage Trust as part of the Ross Sea Heritage Restoration Project (RSHRP) at the expedition bases of Shackleton, Scott and Hillary on Ross Island, Antarctica.

There he’ll be developing leadership skills, taking part in preventative and interventive conservation and challenging himself both professionally and personally in the extreme Antarctic environment.

The Sir Peter Blake Trust, in partnership with Antarctica New Zealand, Antarctic Heritage Trust, NIWA and the Department of Conservation (DOC) are announcing 11 awards in total this year.

The Blake Ambassadors, aged 18-25 years, will be working alongside leading scientists, conservators and rangers, developing relationships and partnerships in their field of interest and experiencing the practical elements of their field of study.

Sally Paterson, Acting CEO of the Sir Peter Blake Trust says it will be a life-changing experience for Chris. “As a Blake Antarctic Ambassador Chris will gain a unique hands-on experience from the moment he sets foot in Antarctica, working alongside heritage leaders in a challenging and new environment.

“Camping in the same environment as Adelie penguins and the early explorer bases on Ross Island, Chris’s adventure will see him develop new skills in conservation leadership,” says Paterson.

Nigel Watson, Antarctic Heritage Trust Executive Director says “part of Antarctic Heritage Trust’s mission is to connect young people with Antarctica and the legacy of the spirit of exploration that we care for. We are excited to have Chris join our team where part of his job will be to share his story and inspire others.”

To be eligible to receive a Blake Ambassador Award applicants must be 18-25 years old with leadership potential and have demonstrated a passion for the environment. In some cases, study in the relevant field may be required.

Follow them on #BlakeAmbassadors

ENDS

For more information please contact Lara Harrison [email protected] or 022 079 3554.