Chicago couple Shauna Gardino, 31, and Dimitri Acosta, 32, were reunited in the arrivals lounge at Auckland International Airport after research scientist Dimitri spent 10 weeks in Antarctica researching ice-covered lakes. They plan to holiday in New Zealand for Christmas.
Auckland Airport is the scene of thousands of welcomes as Kiwis return to spend time with their families at Christmas. We present some of these magic moments.
Where have you travelled from today?
Shauna: I came from Chicago.
Dimitri: And I was in Antarctica for three months.
Wow. So are you based in New Zealand?
Dimitry: We live in Chicago.
Are you holidaying here?
Dimitry: Yes.
So this is your Christmas plan?
Shauna: It is yes. 10 weeks later, finally reunited.
So what are you planning to do while you're here?
Dimitry: We're going to travel south along the North Island to the South Island, and celebrate the New Year in Marlborough.
Nice. Lots of wine down there.
Shauna: Yes.
Dimitry: Indeed. Camping, kayaking, all of the above.
Shauna: Lots of adventures.
How long are you here for?
Shauna: Two weeks.
Are you feeling pretty excited to see each other again and start your trip?
Shauna: Yes, it's been way too long. I miss this guy.
Emergency services rushed to the scene just after 2am.