My last couple of days in Antarctica and Scott Base really feels like home. Everyone down here has become like family and I really wish I could stay here longer! I made sure I packed as much as I could into my last days here down on the ice.

It has been another eventful week down here in Antarctica, the most exciting news is my time down here has been extended. I was meant to be flying home this week, instead I have offered to help the team for an extra week and am now heading home just before Christmas.

Into my fourth week here in Antarctica and I still amazed every time I look out the window. I have to keep telling myself that I am actually in Antarctica and I think I have taken over 10, 000 photos already. A colder front has moved in over Ross Island, so the first couple of days it snowed!!

What an exciting week! I am not even sure where to begin. From completing milestones with the huts progress to who had the best moustache in Scott Base, there was never a dull moment.

After all the excitement from my first few weeks in Antarctica, it was time to settle into a rhythm and start working on the TAE Hut. This week I thought I would describe my normal routine, to give you an idea of what my typical working day is like, and an insight into living at Scott Base.

During our daily radio sked, we were informed of the current weather situation at Scott Base which was heading in our direction. ​It was 1.30 am and I was awoken by my tent thrashing around. Inside my cosy sleeping bag, I peeked out my circular door watching the wind blow over the ground sending snow flying everywhere! The visibility had dropped but there was still enough to see the surrounding tents.

Finally, Wednesday morning, the much-anticipated day where we get to make up camp and stay in the field! The day began with an early breakfast and final checks before setting out in our Hägglund with my team members, Lizzie, Ciaran and Sue. The main aim for this trip is to monitor the artifacts conservation, removing the snow from around the huts and any general maintenance.

What an incredible couple of days! Over the last 48hours, I have hiked up Observation Hill (which is actually more like a mountain), walked more than 20kms over sea ice, photographed baby seal pups and set up a tent in the snow, before finishing off with an ice cream at McMurdo Station.

Hi everyone! My name is Annika Andresen, and I am incredibly honoured and excited to introduce myself as the 2016 BLAKE Antarctic Youth Ambassador! It has been an absolute dream come true. I cannot wait to dive into this life-changing and eye-opening adventure ahead, and take on all the amazing opportunities and challenges over the next month. A massive thank-you to the continual overwhelming generosity and support of BLAKE, Antarctica New Zealand and The Antarctic Heritage Trust for making this incredible opportunity possible.