Dignitaries from Antarctic-related organisations and nations will lay four wreaths at the foot of the Scott Statue. The wreaths are made up of flowers that represent the colours or symbols of each wreath’s purpose:
1. Christchurch – as a gateway city to Antarctica
2. The New Zealand Antarctic Society
3. Explorers and Science, coordinated by Antarctica New Zealand
4. International community collaboration
Admiral Byrd started this tradition in 1928 when he laid the first wreath to commemorate Robert F. Scott's achievements for Antarctic science and exploration, and the NZ Antarctic Society have continued the tradition since 1933. The ceremony is a tribute to currently serving Antarcticans, and those who have gone before.
The wreath-laying ceremony is timed to give enough time to walk from the Antarctic Service at the Cardboard Cathedral to the Scott Statute, and maybe collect a coffee on the way through.
There will be seating available.
Start time: 11:30am, Sunday 12 October 2025
Location: At the Scott Statue, corner of Worcester Street and Oxford Terrace
Duration: 30-40 minutes
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