A Twizel resident is aiming to become the first New Zealand woman to ski to the South Pole.
Kylie Wakelin aims to reach the South Pole with seven others in time to celebrate the New Year and mark the 60th anniversary of the Commonwealth.
Ms Wakelin says she was a late addition to the team, replacing the original New Zealand participant just three weeks ago.
Although the expedition will be mentally and physically draining, she says that being given the opportunity to make the attemot is like winning the lottery.
The team will begin their 900km expedition from the Ronne-Filchner ice shelf on 12 November. They expect to take 40-45 days to reach the South Pole.