International Antarctic Centre

International Antarctic Centre: Our most recommended tours and activities

• 

  1. Christchurch International Antarctic Center Entry Tickets

  Embark on a journey through Antarctica without leaving Christchurch. Visit one of New Zealand's best tourist attractions, the International Antarctic Center. Visitors of all ages will enjoy an interactive, fun and exciting experience of Antarctica. Located conveniently next to Christchurch International Airport, the International Antarctic Centre is open every day of the year from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Experience snow and ice, an Antarctic storm, take the polar plunge ice water challenge, learn about life in modern modern-day Antarctica and Scott Base, and hang out with Little Blue Penguins. Try the famously exciting Hagglund ride and an awesome simulated 4D cruise Ice Voyage. The entry ticket is the closest way to experience Antarctica, without mounting your own expedition. You can also enjoy a personalized commentary on your journey to Antarctica with an audio guide tour available in E...

  There are lots of interesting facts about Antarctica presented in different formats. I liked how there are activities that allow for insightful experiences such as the polar storm and the 4D movie. Also interesting to know about the wildlife and their survival especially with changes in climate and the glaciers melting.

  Reviewed by Anonymous, 19/09/2021
• 

  2. City Sightseeing Tour with International Antarctic Centre

  After pick-up from your Christchurch hotel, start your morning with a drive through the central city. Explore the area that was completely devastated by the February 2011 earthquakes and the innovative rebuilding taking place. Then, leave the inner city and travel to Mona Vale to explore historic homestead and gardens. Visit the historic building 'Sign of the Takahe' for spectacular lookout views over the city, Canterbury Plains and the Southern Alps. Pass through Port Hills, Lyttleton Harbour, Sign of the Kiwi, Governors Bay and the Port of Lyttleton. Visit the seaside suburb of Sumner and see Cave Rock before returning to the city center. Arrive at the International Antarctic Centre around 12:30 PM. Enjoy the snow and ice experience, a blue penguin encounter, a 4D Movie experience, and an exhilarating Hagglund ride. Return to the  city center at your leisure with return transfers to ...

  Do this! It was a wonderful introduction to Christchurch city, our guide Graham had a ton of knowledge and it made the day! The scenery from driving to Sumner and over the Port Hills was outstanding.

  Reviewed by Treena, 29/07/2021
• 

  3. Lyttelton Shore Excursion: City Sights & Antarctic Centre

  Experience the grand architecture, beautiful gardens and scenic viewpoints on a half-day city tour of Christchurch. Wander the Monavale Gardens with its pretty ponds and water features, then drive through the city center - once with its historic buildings and architecture - now heavily destroyed and badly damaged by the Earthquake hitting the city in February 2011. See for yourself both the destruction of the central city and the rebuild that is taking place. You will also visit the botanical gardens in the central city and the seaside suburb of Sumner. Travel to the Sign of the Takahe to admire the spectacular views over the Canterbury Plains and the Southern Alps. The tour then moves on to The International Antarctic Center: a must-see attraction in Christchurch. This features a recreation of the atmosphere of Antarctica with a snow and ice experience and Antarctic Storm, the Little B...