President Mary McAleese, who is continuing her state visit to New Zealand, has announced a Government donation to the Antarctic Heritage Trust.
At an Ireland Fund event in Auckland, the Trust described the Government's decision as most welcome.
The donation will provide them with funding to help conserve the Antarctic Base used by Irishmen Ernest Shackleton and Tom Crean, early in the last century.
New Zealand has strong ties with its southern neighbour, Antarctica, and none-more so than the legendary Endurance expedition of 1914 which involved the two men.
Together with New Zealander Frank Worseley, and in just 32 hours, they made the 64km trek across the Continent's icy terrain to reach the South Georgia Whaling Station.
The New Zealand Antarctic Heritage Trust is working to conserve the bases used in the expeditions and to educate people.
President McAleese surprised patrons at an Ireland Fund lunch with news that the Government was providing just over €52,000 in funding for the Trust.
Its president, the Rt Hon Paul East, thanked Mrs McAleese for Ireland's support, which he said would be put to good use.
President McAleese said the explorers were the celebrities of her youth, and unlike those who become celebrities by jumping in front of a camera today, those like Mr Shackleton and Mr Crean did so through their mammoth achievements.
