Long-awaited National Erebus Memorial begins construction | Manatū Taonga

News — 24 June, 2026

Construction has started on the National Erebus Memorial, marking a significant step forward in honouring the 257 people who lost their lives in the Mt Erebus disaster on 28 November 1979.

The start of construction was marked on Monday with a site blessing and ceremonial sod turning, attended by Erebus families, members of the recovery effort Operation Overdue, Ngāi Tūāhuriri, Christchurch City Council, project partners and government officials.

Crowd gathered in prayer on hill a sun rises in background — Site blessing at Cracroft Reserve.

Secretary for Culture and Heritage Leanauae Laulu Mac Leauanae said the milestone reflects many years of commitment to creating a place of national remembrance.
“Today marks a significant occasion - the blessing of the site and turning of the sod for the National Erebus Memorial,” Leauanae said.

David Nicholson, who lost his sister Christine in the disaster, put the first spade in the ground on Monday.

Man with spade surrounded by small crowd — David Nicholson at the ceremonial sod turning.

“257 people who were killed on 28 November 1979. 20 of the people onboard Flight TE901 were flight or cabin crew. 237 were passengers, including 60 people from overseas. They were of all ages, from different places, countries and backgrounds,” said Leauanae.

“They were on Flight TE901 for many reasons - for work, for sightseeing, to celebrate birthdays and anniversaries, and to see the icy continent.”

At the heart of the National Erebus Memorial are the families of those who lost their lives, alongside the people who took part in the recovery effort following the disaster.

“I acknowledge that not everyone wanted to see the memorial built in Ōtautahi Christchurch, and that Auckland was the original preference as a memorial location.

“Given the strong connections to Antarctica and the Erebus story, and the warmth of welcome the memorial and families have received from Christchurch, I believe the city is the rightful home for the National Erebus Memorial.

“Most importantly, I want to extend my deepest appreciation to Erebus families and members of Operation Overdue. This memorial is long overdue.”

ENDS

Watch video of David Nicholson talking about the memorial (YouTube)