He is a believer in an old saying about the frozen continent.
“The ice gets in your blood. Once you have stepped foot on the ice, you will never forget it for the rest of your life and will always want to return, “ he says.
As part of the New Zealand Defence Force’s (NZDF) annual commitment to Antarctica New Zealand programmes, he’s one of around 100 NZDF personnel who work on the continent for periods ranging from two weeks to six months, depending on their role.
Sapper Laurie’s days on the ice vary. Since the emergency crews rotate locations, he could be out on an ice shelf airfield, exploring with a day off, or at the station responding to fires, medical events or hazmat incidents.
“When I’m based out at Williams Airfield, our main role is Aviation Rescue Fire Fighting coverage for the United States Air Force and Royal New Zealand Air Force aircraft, which move people, cargo, and conduct scientific missions around the continent.”
The biggest challenges are the 24-hour sunlight cycle and, unsurprisingly, the cold – especially during a -30 degree C wind chill. But what he did find surprising were conditions when the snow and ice melts.
“At the peak of summer, the melt left the whole area dusty and brown from the volcanic soil and rock which covers the region. Watching the speed of the sea ice breaking up around the station, bringing out the ocean, was also a cool experience. It’s amazing watching the area change so rapidly.”