www.usap.gov/videoclipsandmaps/mcmwebcam.cfm
As you can see from the live webcam (link above), it's still too stormy at McMurdo to land a plane. Once the storm stops, there also needs to be enough of a gap in the weather to fully clear the runway, which is not an easy feat in Antarctic conditions. So, for the past few days we've been continuing our eat-shop-work-adventure routine in New Zealand. Yesterday we took an adventure to Kaikoura, a small coastal town about 2.5 hours north of Christchurch where the mountains truly do meet the sea. Originally developed as part of the whaling industry, Kaikoura is still known for its wildlife, including albatrosses, sperm whales, and fur seals. While we didn't catch a glimpse of any whales or albatrosses, we did get to say hello to plenty of fur seals, calves, and even a New Zealand fantail. We enjoyed both mountain and ocean views on our hike around the peninsula, indulged ourselves in a fantastic seafood lunch, and then ventured into the foothills for a secluded forest walk to end the day. The entire day (including the drive) was just stunning and I'm thankful that we had the opportunity to visit. Although we are all very anxious to get down to the ice to begin our field season!
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The first post! I decided to start this website and writing journey as I am returning to McMurdo Station, Antarctica for my second field season. Hopefully this helps convince all of you back home that I am not actually turning into a penguin (as much as I would love that). My plan for the next four months is to post as often as possible with research and general life-on-the-ice updates, so please check here to see what we're up to! I hope to continue this blog and website throughout my PhD to document my adventures, scientific pursuits, and other life tid-bits.
We made it to New Zealand a few days ago and are all ready to get to the ice: we have our extreme cold weather (ECW) gear, dropped off our excess luggage, and have completed our required trainings. Unfortunately the weather gods at McMurdo are not quite ready to have us, yet, and flights look like they'll be delayed for a few more days. In the meantime, we are soaking in the abundant fresh foods ("freshies") and delicious coffee while we have them and are exploring Christchurch. We've visited our favorite restaurants (ahem more than a few times), perused the sales at Kathmandu and Macpac, walked around the city looking at the street art, and visited the exhibits at the Canterbury Museum. It's winter in New Zealand and much chillier than the 106°F weather that we left in the Central Valley, so our bodies are getting a gentle acclimation to the cold before getting to the Antarctic winter. Fingers crossed that the weather at McMurdo clears soon. For now, I'm going to go find some mangoes. Photos: B-207 after arriving in the Aukland airport (top left); graffiti art in Christchurch (top middle); Andrew, Mandy, and Anne in the city center (top right); an image of a "Pup-gloo" from Shackleton's famous expedition (middle left); extreme cold weather (ECW) clothing (middle middle); Husky named Porridge at the Antarctic Centre (middle right); french toast, coffee, and avocado toast at our favorite restaurant, Unknown Chapter (bottom row). |
AuthorHey it's me, Mandy! I'd love to share my adventures, scientific (and other) thoughts with you here. Thanks for visiting! ArchivesCategories |