Christchurch International Antarctic Center Tickets

About this experience

The International Antarctic Center is an attraction in Christchurch, New Zealand, located adjacent to Christchurch International Airport, and one of the few places in the world where visitors can engage directly with Antarctic science, wildlife, and polar conditions without leaving the Southern Hemisphere. The center draws on Christchurch's long-standing role as a gateway city for Antarctic expeditions, a position it has held since the Heroic Age of polar exploration in the early twentieth century. Among the Christchurch attractions suited to families and curious adults alike, it stands out for the breadth of hands-on content on offer. Inside, the Antarctic storm room replicates blizzard conditions, dropping temperatures and wind speeds to levels recorded on the continent itself. Visitors can board a genuine Hägglund all-terrain vehicle for an off-road ride that demonstrates how field teams move across ice and rough terrain, though a minimum height of 1.2 metres applies for that activity. The resident Kororā, the world's smallest penguin species, are rescued Little Blue Penguins cared for on site, and a dedicated husky zone introduces the sled dogs historically associated with polar travel. A 4D film rounds out the visit with motion seating and environmental effects. Tickets cover general admission to all core exhibits, with the Hägglund ride and penguin encounters included in the standard entry.

Highlights

• Step into a simulated Antarctic storm at Christchurch's International Antarctic Center, feel the chill, and see how explorers braved the harshest continent.
• Entry includes access to all core exhibits, a thrilling Hägglund vehicle ride, 4D Antarctic show, and animal encounters.
• Meet rescued little blue penguins and see huskies, the legendary sled dogs of Antarctic expeditions.
• Buckle up for an off-road adventure in a genuine Hägglund vehicle, designed for Antarctic terrain.
• Dive into the 4D Antarctic experience show, where wind, snow, and adventure leap off the screen.

What is included

• Entry to the International Antarctic Center, Christchurch
• Access to Storm Dome, Penguin Rescue, HD Theatre, 4D Theatre, Hägglunds Field Trip & Husky Zone

Not included

• Penguin backstage tour
• Food and drinks
• Audio guides

Before you go

Arrival and getting started The International Antarctic Centre sits directly beside Christchurch International Airport, so it is straightforward to spot on arrival. Head to the main entrance with your ticket ready, and staff at the door will check you in and point you towards the exhibits. Arrive in good time before any scheduled shows or rides, as the 4D Antarctic experience and Hägglund vehicle ride run at set times throughout the day. Getting around the venue The centre is a self-guided attraction, so you can move between exhibits at your own pace. The Antarctic storm room and Hägglund ride are active experiences, so dress comfortably and be prepared for movement and cold temperatures. Children must be over 1.2 metres tall to join the Hägglund ride. The Little Blue Penguin area and husky cuddle zone may have timed or capacity-limited sessions, so check the daily schedule with staff on arrival. During your visit Photography policies vary by area, particularly around the penguins and live animal zones, so follow the guidance of staff on the day. Keep noise to a comfortable level near the animals, and note that food and drink may be restricted in certain exhibit spaces.

Cancellation terms

These tickets cannot be cancelled or rescheduled.