International Antarctic Centre - Christchurch
The International Antarctic Centre brings you close to Antarctica without leaving New Zealand. #morecool
Visitors can immerse themselves in the snow and ice by sheltering in an ice cave, slide down an icy slope, brave the wind chill machine at -18 degrees Celsius and experience a simulated Antarctic Storm that occurs every hour. There are also plenty of displays covering the history of Antarctic exploration and what life is like at the modern-day scientific bases.
The Hagglund Ride gives visitors the chance to experience what it's like on an all-terrain amphibious Antarctic vehicle while the 4D Extreme Theatre offers a simulated cruise with close-ups of wildlife and stunning scenery that makes you feel like you are really on the ice.
For animal lovers, The Penguin Encounter is an indoor/outdoor arena viewing area which allows visitors to observe Little Blue Penguins at close quarters. Visit at feeding time to see the birds or take a backstage tour to learn more about the colony and how they are looked after.
Once you have experienced all the thrills, take time out in the cafe which serves fresh seasonal food and then browse the gift shop to pick up a souvenir of your visit.
Opening Times:
Monday - Sunday: 9.00am to 5.30pm.
If you are travelling to or from Christchurch city you can hop on the free Penguin Shuttle - just look for the bus with the playful penguins on the roof.
