The first New Zealand woman to ski to the South Pole is back in the country and enjoying hot water and mattresses.
Kylie Wakelin, of Twizel, was part of a Commonwealth Antarctic expedition team which trekked to the South Pole over 38 days, arriving about two weeks ago.
Family and friends met her at Christchurch Airport yesterday.
"It's just an incredibly beautiful landscape - when we arrived at the pole, I was trying to remain calm, but it was just an amazing feeling," she told The Press.
The trip was not technically difficult but was a test of endurance, with just one rest day in the 38 days.
"Free-flowing hot water and mattresses" were the best part of being back, Ms Wakelin said.
