Antarctic-related activities contributed nearly a quarter of a billion dollars to New Zealand’s economy last year, according to a new report.
Released by Antarctica New Zealand, the report analysed the economic impact of Antarctic-related activities on Canterbury and the wider New Zealand economy.
The biennial study, produced by Lincoln University and supported by the Christchurch Antarctic Office, highlights the financial benefits and the strategic importance of Antarctica to New Zealand.
The findings show that activities related to Antarctica generated $229.3 million for the national economy in 2023.
The report covers five key sectors: National Antarctic Programmes, tourism, fishing, education and research, and Antarctic heritage.
While COVID-19 had an impact on these sectors in 2020 and 2021, the 2023 figures now exceed pre-pandemic levels.
Antarctica New Zealand Acting Chief Executive, Jordy Hendrikx, said Christchurch is a key player in Antarctic operations, as one of only five Antarctic Gateway Cities in the world.
“Christchurch has been a deployment port to Antarctica for over a century. It’s an integral part of the city’s history and economy, with Antarctic-related activities generating $158.3 million in the region,” said Hendrikx.
“Being a gateway city is part of our DNA. When the US Airforce Globemasters fly into Christchurch in October for the start of the research season, the whole city turns out to watch,” he added.
David Tayler, Head of the Christchurch Antarctic Office, said Christchurch’s connection to Antarctica is an opportunity for innovation and research, contributing to over 3,000 full-time jobs in Canterbury.
“Our geographic location provides a strategic advantage, but it’s Christchurch’s world-class infrastructure and network of businesses that make us a global leader in Antarctic operations,” said Tayler.
More than 800 local businesses supply goods and services to the four National Antarctic Programmes based in Christchurch: New Zealand, the United States, Italy, and South Korea.
