A new floating pier bound for Antarctica arrived in Lyttelton on 28 January after a six-week tow across the Pacific Ocean.
The United States National Science Foundation (NSF) is replacing McMurdo Station’s long-used ice pier, which is prone to cracking.
The barge, Discovery Pier, was towed into Lyttelton Port by the American tug Rachel, operated by TradeWinds Towing.
Built in Portland, Oregon, the pier travelled down the Pacific Ocean, stopping in Hawaii and American Samoa.
Skipper Justin Gustafson said there were some big swells on the way south.
“As towing a barge goes, she handles fairly well,” Justin said.
“We were moving at six and a half knots, which is about what we aim for,” he added.
Lyttelton is Discovery Pier’s final stop before heading south to Antarctica.
Lyttelton Pilot Matthew Conyers said an extensive plan was prepared before the arrival in Christchurch.
“It’s different, we don’t bring many barges like this in,” Matthew said.
“We do other dead-ship work with trawlers, so it’s the type of operation we’re familiar with. We had a detailed plan and were able to adapt as needed,” he added.
Discovery Pier is set to depart Lyttelton on 3 February.
The United States Coast Guard heavy icebreaker, Polar Star, will support operations in the Southern Ocean through the icebergs to McMurdo.
Conditions in the Ross Sea and near McMurdo will influence the pace of the final leg.
Skipper Justin Gustafson says he expects it will take about two weeks to reach their destination.