It is probably going to be cold...

Did you know that Christchurch is the staging ground/departure point for many expeditions to Antarctica?  Another good reason to bring warm layers!  It really is surprisingly close as the map above shows, and the southerlies always smell like ice to me as the winds come up from the roaring 40s.  Seriously, bring warm layers and be prepared for rapid changes in weather.  We have experience temperature fluctuations of up to 30 degrees in as little as 15 minutes.  We have had warm, sunny days in the upper 50s, and then really, really cold ones in the low 30s with lots of rain, and rain, and rain.  Did we mention rain?! Snow is never ruled out either.  Be prepared for almost anything. Wind and water proof layers are essential, and, as I mentioned at our first meeting, I am a fan of warm, dry socks.  Warm hands, head, and neck are always good too.  Can you tell I am a Florida girl?  Most days will average in the upper 30s to mid 40s and most nights will be teens to 30s. A typical outfit for me will be wool socks with running shoes or hiking boots, jeans, camisole, long sleeve t shirt, short sleeve t shirt, lightweight cotton hoodie, down vest, gloves, hat, and scarf.  I can easily add a wind/water proof layer (or two, or three) to this, or shed some layers as needed.  Check your packing list and feel free to talk with Mark or me if you have questions.
-Meryl : )