New Zealanders living and working in Antarctica have sent through the first images of the sun this winter – after weeks in total darkness.

Lisa-Marie Brooks, science and communications advisor for Antarctica NZ, sent WeatherWatch these exclusive images – of the first sunrise and sunset in months.

“Well its happened!  The sun has reached the horizon and peeks over it today!” Lisa-Marie said with the accompanying photo.

Another picture of nacreous clouds behind Anarctica New Zealand’s Scott Base also accompanied their correspondence, showing a pretty spectacular vista.

“To see the sun and the nacreous cloulds left a lasting impression on our Winter team” she said.

The Antarctic Heritage Trust Conservators who are Wintering over with the team  there said “to see the sun reach the horizon was awesome, energising and inspiring”

Michael Rowe, Antarctica New Zealand’s Winter Field Support said “I never knew nacreous clouds would be that spectacular. 

“We all stood and watched them, mesmerised for quite some time”

Conditions currently are less than cozy, the temperature is sitting at -44 degrees with wind chill, and 13 kmph NE winds and some cloud cover.

-Photos © Mike Rowe, Antarctica New Zealand Winter Field Support