Story highlights Former astronaut Buzz Aldrin was evacuated from the South Pole for medical reasons

Aldrin was visiting as part of a tourist group

(CNN) Former astronaut Buzz Aldrin, the second person to walk on the moon in 1969, has landed in Christchurch, New Zealand, after being evacuated from the South Pole when his medical condition deteriorated, according to a release from the National Science Foundation. He is 86 years old.

Aldrin landed at 4:25 a.m. December 2. "Upon arrival in Christchurch, the Antarctic program's logistics hub in New Zealand, Aldrin was transferred to a local medical facility," according to the foundation.

He "currently has fluid in his lungs but is responding well to antibiotics and being kept overnight for observation. His condition is stable and his manager, who is currently with him, described him being in good spirits," according to an update from luxury tourism company White Desert

His manager, Christina Korp, said Aldrin is recovering. She also tweeted photos showing that Aldrin reached the South Pole, which was his goal.

As @TheRealBuzz is recovering I did want to let people know that he did make it to the South Pole which was his objective. Thnx for prayers! pic.twitter.com/jDWcq7PvU0 — Christina Korp (@Buzzs_xtina) December 2, 2016

Aldrin was part of a tourist group visiting Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station through White Desert. The trip was expected to last through December 12.