Like most good things, once you see it for yourself, you’ll absolutely love it. That sentiment rings true at the incredible International Antarctic Centre in Christchurch. It’s the home to a range of ‘cool’ experiences and a team who are passionate about the preservation of this frosty region around the South Pole. The International Antarctic Centre brings the Antarctic to you. Right in the midst of the South Island’s largest city, near the Christchurch International Airport, you can explore things that seem out of reach. See little blue penguins / kororā, huskies and weather an arctic storm! Check out their 4D theatre and a proper Hägglund! With discovery and entertainment at the forefront of their minds, the team at the International Antarctic Centre have created a place for everyone to experience the somewhat mysterious Antarctic region. This is one of the best things to do in Christchurch for families, couples, solo explorers and everyone in between. It offers just the right amount of adrenaline, inspiration and education.
1. See Little Blue Penguins / Kororā
Penguins are often associated with the icy continent of Antarctica, or rocky areas along New Zealand coastlines, but you can see these little guys at the International Antarctic Centre. The centre is home to plenty of these rescued penguins, who spend their days swimming, catching fish and waddling around. Every day at 10.30am and 3pm, it’s feeding time. Penguin-watching is a must-do Christchurch activity, and the two best vantage points are from the outdoor viewing area or in the pool auditorium downstairs. If you’re all about these cute little birds, you can upgrade your general admission ticket to a VIP pass to get backstage with these magnificent creatures.
Flying into Christchurch? The International Antarctic Centre is just a five minute stroll away. Store your bags and start exploring!
2. The Storm Dome
Turn down the temperature for your next day out in Christchurch and do something unique and exciting. The Storm Dome is the coolest place in the centre by far. It’s chilled to -8° Celsius and a -18° Celsius wind sweeps through the Storm Dome for an intensely realistic experience of a real Antarctic Storm. Don’t let the cold put you off. There’s an ice cave to seek shelter from the storm in. Feeling brave? Ask about the ‘Polar Plunge Challenge’ while you’re at it.
3. Pat Huskies
Huskies were a mode of transportation in Antarctica until all dogs were retired from the continent in 1991. Now they’re chilling out at the International Antarctic Centre! This Christchurch destination just gets better and better. Come along Thursdays to Mondays to see, pat or cuddle these beautiful, intelligent animals. Their handler is on site to answer any burning husky questions too.
4. Ride a Hägglund
A Hägglund is an all-terrain amphibious Antarctic vehicle designed to tackle icy terrain. Fit for scientists and their excursions, a Hägglund is built to drive across ice, up and down hills, through water and over crevasses. And you can take a ride in one at the International Antarctic Centre! Sit back, buckle up and hold on. Be transported to the polar region with a ride on one of these bad boys. It’s an adrenaline-fuelled experience and is certainly not your average off-road adventure in Christchurch. Plus, this experience is included on general admission tickets.
5. Check out the 4D Theatre
Enjoy a short film with a difference. Immersive and exciting, the International Antarctic Centre puts on a thrilling ride. A 4D theatre experience is a multi-sensory cinema with winds and mists for the ultimate movie watching session. The whole family will love this with one. The perfect way to top off your Antarctic encounter.
This article was created in paid partnership with Real NZ.
