Most kiwis look to spend their summer on the beach, however crew on HMNZS Wellington has traded in the sand for the icy Antarctic waters.

They've been on patrol since November to keep an eye on fishing areas to ensure there's no illegal activity.

HMNZSWellington Commanding Officer Graham MacLean says crews are facing some of the most hostile seas you can operate in.

There's lots of clothing required to even send us out of the ship on to the upper deck, with a mean temperature of minus ten degrees," he says.

"You've got to take these things seriously."

"It's probably the most hostile seas you can possibly operate in, it's fairly rugged down here."

Mr MacLean says they'll be in warmer waters closer to home over Christmas and will be enjoying a Christmas Day roast and of course a pavlova.