Plan to save Sir Edmund Hillary's Antarctic hut

Sir Edmund Hillary. Photo / NZPA

A plan to conserve Sir Edmund Hillary's hut in Antarctica has been announced today.

Hillary's Hut, known as Hut A, is part of New Zealand's first scientific facility at Scott Base.

It is the original remaining building established for the country's involvement in the Trans-Antarctic Expedition of 1955-58 and the International Geophysical Year 1957-58.

It is recognised as a historic monument under the Antarctic Treaty.

Prime Minister John Key announced the plan to conserve Hillary's Hut today at an event hosted by Arts, Culture and Heritage Minister Maggie Barry.

The event involved surviving members of the Trans-Antarctic Expedition 1955-58 and the International Geophysical Year 1957-58 and members of Sir Ed's family.

Antarctic Heritage Trust director Nigel Watson said Sir Ed had been the trust's patron up until his death.

"We are honoured to have the opportunity, in partnership with Antarctica New Zealand, to conserve the origins of Scott Base once we secure the necessary funding."

The conservation plan for the hut was written by a team of authors under the leadership of Conservation Architect Chris Cochran, and peer reviewed by international experts.

In 2012, the trust signed a memorandum of understanding with Antarctica New Zealand to manage the conservation work, including all fundraising for the site.

Work will commence in the Antarctic summer of 2016-17 subject to the trust securing funds.