Otago sailor experiences ice-breaking mission to Antarctica

Able Hydrographic Systems Operator (AHSO) Phillips, from Milton, Otago, was one of two Royal New Zealand Navy sailors who spent the last three months serving aboard United States Coast Guard Cutter Polar Star. 

Now in its 50th year of service, Polar Star supports the US mission Operation Deep Freeze. Every year the vessel breaks a channel through the sea ice to McMurdo Sound in Antarctica, enabling the resupply of the US’ McMurdo Station and New Zealand’s Scott Base. 

AHSO Phillips, along with fellow sailor Leading Marine Technician (Electrical) Drew Bingham, disembarked Polar Star last week after the vessel called into Wellington, having spent 55 days below the Antarctic Circle.

The pair had joined the ship in December in Hawaii, travelling directly to McMurdo where it established an 11 kilometre channel through ‘fast ice’, which is sea ice anchored to the coastline or sea floor.

“The highlight for me aboard Polar Star was the moment we first started breaking ice. The ship rides up on the ice, then it cracks down. We did that for about a week,” AHSO Phillips says.

He joined the Navy in 2020 after finishing at Tokomairiro High School. AHSO Phillips said his years of fishing, diving and surfing inspired him towards joining the service, and he had always had a fascination with Antarctica.

As a Hydrographic Systems Operator, his trade involves the creation of seabed and coastline charts, as well as searching for mines and sunken explosives using remotely operated underwater vehicles. The search and recovery of bodies from sunken vessels and aircraft also forms part of this role.

On board Polar Star, AHSO Phillips was involved in general ship maintenance and working with the ship’s boats. 

As it was quite a junior crew, he found himself as one of the more experienced seafarers. 

“It was a very accommodating atmosphere because it was the first time for a lot of people on board.”

He would encourage his Navy colleagues to take up the opportunity.

“It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience and the ship will welcome your knowledge and look after you.”

United States Chargé d’Affaires David Gehrenbeck, who met the pair in Wellington, says Royal New Zealand Navy seariders have become an integral part of Polar Star missions. 

“Their expertise and upbeat approach are always appreciated by everyone on board,” he said. 

“The Royal New Zealand Navy’s continued involvement underscores the operational bond and mutual respect between our countries, providing valuable opportunities for joint training and exchange of best practices.”