02 Apr 2007

Antarctic Youth Ambassador Programme promotion

Prime Minister Helen Clark and James Blake, son of New Zealand adventurer and yachtsman Sir Peter Blake recently launched the Antarctic Youth Ambassador programme, a scheme endeavouring to fulfil environmental passions of young New Zealanders.

The programme hopes to engage New Zealanders in Antarctic environmental issues such as climate change, assessing environmental impacts of activities in the area and helping to monitor and protect endangered species and protected areas.

Each year, the Antarctic Youth Ambassador programme will see one New Zealander, aged 18 - 25 years, work on Antarctica New Zealand's environmental initiatives and act as an ambassador to help others, based on their experiences.

Sir Peter's son James (20), who worked on a project in Antarctica to conserve and restore the bases of the first explorers in Antarctica, says the programme is something his father would be proud of.

"Dad developed a real passion for Antarctica and the Southern Ocean as a result of his many world sailing expeditions. He fulfilled a long-held dream when he visited the Antarctic Peninsula onboard Seamaster in 2001. I know he would be very excited about this programme. It's a wonderful opportunity".

The Ambassador will be placed with Antarctica New Zealand during summer months working as part of the environmental team. This may include work based at the International Antarctic Centre in Christchurch, at Scott Base in Antarctica or in other Antarctic locations for which Antarctica New Zealand has responsibility.

The programme is open to all New Zealand residents aged 18-25 years at time of application. Application forms can be downloaded online and close Friday, May 4 2007.

Adventure Magazine