77 Degrees South
A group of young explorers set out for Antarctica carrying a fragile piece of history, but reaching its final destination would be anything but certain.
77 Degrees South is a six-part podcast series from Antarctic Heritage Trust following eight rangatahi (young people) on the Inspiring Explorers Expedition™ to the Ross Sea, Antarctica. Travelling aboard Heritage Expeditions’ 'Heritage Adventurer', the team embarks on a remarkable journey to some of Antarctica’s most significant historic sites, while attempting to return a carefully restored copy of The Count of Monte-Cristo to its original home inside Scott’s Discovery hut. Along the way, listeners are taken inside the huts of Scott and Shackleton, where everyday objects remain almost exactly as they were left more than a century ago. Through these extraordinary places, the team discovers the human stories of Antarctic exploration, develops a deeper connection to the continent's heritage, and reflects on their own role in protecting its future. The series also offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the Antarctic Heritage Trust’s world-leading conservation work, protecting these fragile sites in one of the harshest environments on Earth.
77 Degrees South
Episode 4: Manaakitanga
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In Shackleton’s hut at Cape Royds windows illuminate the interior with a soft glow, and the stove sits in the centre of the room, as if ready to boil the kettle. As the team explore, they experience a sense of goodwill and protection. Shackleton’s final act of nailing the key to the door as he left with an invitation welcoming those in need evokes a feeling of manaakitanga (hospitality, kindness, generosity, support).
The team explain the biosecurity requirements they undertake to protect Antarctica’s unique biodiversity, and make preparations for returning a historic artefact.