PREPARATION

As with VUWAE8, the expedition undertook to perform complicated physical measurements in the field and a great deal of apparatus and instruments had to be prepared. Many instruments and apparatus used by VUWAES were again employed but some new instruments were purchased and others, constructed by expedition members. Moderate expenditure was incurred with replacement and repair of field equipment such as windproofs, tents, sleeping bags and kitchen equipment. A considerable amount of field equipment and down clothing was loaned by Antarctic Division D.S.I.R. and each member contributed some of his own clothing, thus keeping down expenditure by the University. Every item required by the expedition except those borrowed from Scott Base or USAEP, NeNurdo, was purchased and packed by expedition members. Much of the clothing and equipment used by VUWAE8 was in excellent condition and used again. The recommendations of VUWAE8 and VUWAE8 were followed as closely as finance permitted and were found to be sound and applicable.

A complete schedule of operations for the summer was formulated and agreed to by New Zealand and United States authorities. The expedition's proposed movements mere relatively complex and involved much helicopter support. Consequently, Prebble accompanied Antarctic Division authorities to Christchurch in September and discussed the expedition's plans with the United States authorities who accepted suggestions for streemlining of the proposed schedule for VUWAE9.

Expedition members attended the Antarctic Training Week at Waiouru and Mt. Ruapehu in September in order to meet Scott Base and New Zealand field personnel, and to familiarise with base and field precedure and safety. Messrs Bell and Hoare attended an explosives safety course in Wellington to prepare for the use of gelignite during the geophysical programme. Bell, accompanied by expedition members and university staff tested the geochrone equipment under various conditions including the Tasman Glacier and Mt Tarawera. Many valuable lessons were learnt and useful information gathered in the process of his preparations.

A great deal of time and effort put into the preparation and equipping of the expedition was instrumental in the smooth running that followed in the field.