One of the leading tourist attractions in the city of Christchurch, the International Antarctic Centre is located in proximity to the Christchurch International Airport. The attraction delivers an exciting, interactive and powerful experience of Antarctica. A finalist and a multiple winner of the New Zealand Tourism Awards, it is from this centre that various Antarctic missions are organised.
This attraction is as close as one will get to the actual South Pole. This fascinating experience takes you on an enlightening journey of discoveries delving not only into the beauty of Antarcticas wildlife and scenery but also the harsh realities of early Antarctic explorations.
The indoor attraction of the centre is a gallery area which contains an array of informative displays depicting the modern state of Antarctica including the plant and wildlife systems, the human impact on the continent, the Antarctic Treaty partners and most importantly Antarcticas effect on the globe. Ensuring the visitors experience Antarctica in an unforgettable way, the gallery encourages hands-on interactivity that involves most of the exhibits.
A much loved highlight at the Antarctic Centre is the New Zealand Penguin Encounter which is the first ever combined outdoor/indoor penguin viewing area in the country. With the capacity to keep over 20 Blue penguins, the attractions centrepiece is a special penguin life support area including a pool. The significance of the penguins held here is that they have been rescued after being left defenceless due to their physical disabilities.
Adding a sense of adventure and thrill to your experience here is the Hagglund, which is an all terrain amphibian Antarctic vehicle. Climb aboard and sit back as it takes you on an exhilarating ride over crevasse, mounds and rough terrain.
A qualified teaching staff offers those visiting the centre the opportunity to learn further about the little Blue penguin and the Great White Continent through customised educational programmes.
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