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Christchurch is one of only a few cities in the world with the designation of being a ‘Gateway to Antarctica’. Along with New Zealand’s national Antarctic programme, the US, China, and many other countries use the city as a launchpad for expeditions. This gives Ōtautahi the rare status of being a convergence point for some of the best minds in Antarctic research. Recently, an anonymous donation of $1.2 million was made towards UC’s Faculty of Science, a portion of which is earmarked for Antarctic studies.

“This donation will make a difference for the new generation in Antarctic science and research,” says Associate Professor Liggett.

It’s vital to have more researchers established in the field of Antarctic studies because of the continent’s importance in world climate and ecosystems. Worldwide, 3 billion people rely on the fisheries industry for a living. Warming ocean temperatures, melting ice sheets, and ocean acidification from increased carbon absorption are now disrupting the delicate processes that feed this vital industry.

"We know that the environment is changing, but how fast is it changing? How long before it has an impact on us? We need better predictions so we can plan."

Professor Wolfgang Rack