International Antarctic Centre General Admission Ticket
Overview
Mobile ticket
The International Antarctic Centre transports a slice of this astounding continent to Christchurch, with a range of immersive experiences that allow everyday visitors to see, touch, feel and fall in love with Antarctica.
Brave an Antarctic storm, go off-road in a Hägglund, mingle with the penguins, experience Antarctica from all four dimensions and leave with a head full of knowledge, a heart full of love and an inspiration to take action. Just like the explorers before you.
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Hagglund Rides: We do not recommend this ride for visitors with heart conditions, back or neck pain or if pregnant
Children must be over 1.2 meters tall to ride the Hagglund and all children must be accompanied by an adult
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
International Antarctic Center Admission Ticket
Excess luggage charges (where applicable)
Meeting and Pickup
Meeting points
International Antarctic Centre
38 Orchard Road Christchurch New Zealand
End points
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
What To Expect
International Antarctic Centre
The International Antarctic Centre transports a slice of this astounding continent to Christchurch, with a range of immersive experiences that allow everyday visitors to see, touch, feel and fall in love with Antarctica. Brave an Antarctic storm, go off-road in a Hägglund, see rescued Kororā, Little Blue Penguins, experience Antarctica from all four dimensions and leave with a head full of knowledge, a heart full of love and an inspiration to take action. Just like the explorers before you. We are located next to Christchurch International Airport and open every day of the year, except Christmas Day, from 9am – 4.30pm.
Options
International Antarctic Centre General Admission Ticket
Reviews
463 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Fabulous, educational centre
leonig767,
Dec 1, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00A really interesting and informative centre. The films were interesting. The experience of putting on a warm jacket and being in -8oc wind chill was fun.
A Very Tired Tourist Trap
R4484JGsarahm,
Nov 30, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
2.00A disappointment. For $74 which (includes admission and a 15 minute ride on the Hagglund, I expected a state of the art experience. It is a tired, dated, old tech museum. It needs major updating in technology, photos and stories. There have been people down there who have had incredible experiences. What about the physician who found a lump, did her own biopsy, administered her own airdropped chemotherapy for cancer because a plane cannot land 8 months of the year! It's one thing to say it has harsh winters, but bring the reality to life. Don't just show blowing snow in a film! This may have been state of the art in the early 1990s when it opened, but it is just a tired tourist trap now, and an expensive one. Shameful.
Very interesting, but realize you have to provide your own transportation.
James C,
Nov 26, 2025
- Review from Viator
4.00It was very interesting however we only had about an hour and 45 minutes at the center because our ship was leaving 3 1/2 hours earlier than planned. We thought this include transportation to the center however we took a shuttle to Christchurch and then took a taxi cab for about $45 each way New Zealand currency so it was more expensive than we thought it would be, but it was a great experience.
Fascinating and interactive
traceyr279,
Nov 23, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Had a great afternoon in the IAC. Lots of really interesting displays plus interactive activities including experiencing the cold of the Antarctic and a ride on a Hagglund. Loved the penguins. Friendly, helpful staff. Excellent value for money.
Must visit!
Wander Eyes,
Nov 22, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The International Antarctic Centre is an absolute must-visit when you're in Christchurch. It’s only a couple of minutes from the airport, so it’s perfect to stop by either as soon as you land or right before you fly out. I’d recommend setting aside around three to four hours to really enjoy everything. I was pleasantly surprised by how large and engaging the exhibits were. There are several activities to choose from, including a ride on the Hägglund: a Swedish-made military vehicle actually used in Antarctica. The ride itself lasts about ten minutes and is a lot of fun. Request to ride in the front! You can also meet and pet the huskies, if that’s your thing. Another standout is the snowstorm room, where you can feel what an Antarctic blast is like. They also show several films, but the highlight for me was the 4D theater experience. Avoid the first two rows and you will thank me later! And of course, the penguins! They have about a dozen of the smallest penguins, all rescues. You can’t pet them, but you can get very close, and we happened to catch their feeding — watching them eat squid was adorable. Overall, it’s an informative and fascinating center that brings this mysterious continent to life. Christchurch is known as the gateway to Antarctica, and this place truly captures that spirit. Highly recommend!
Must do experience
Matthew M,
Nov 21, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Hagglund ride a must. Snow storm experience feel -18c. 4d cinema. Husky patting. View Blue penguins.
Great experience
Jet32224852378,
Nov 17, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This is a must see if you are in Christchurch. Be rugged up for the storm room gets to -18 degrees Celsius. Meeting the huskies is special
Enjoyable family activity in Christchurch
Jane M,
Nov 14, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Great place to take the family, some unique and fun activities to enjoy and a fascinating look into life in Antartica, past and present.
AMAZING,A MUST VISIT!
39kerriey,
Nov 12, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Purchased tickets while in another country with great ease. Once arrived at the Antartica centre staff were very friendly, and explained things clearly. The experiences were amazing from the Hagglunds field ride, storm experience , penguins, and the cute huskies. Very much recommended visiting. 😊
A worthwhile visit
Y4638MXjudyh,
Nov 8, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Excellent exhibits and many are interactive. Some superb films. The experience is both educational and enjoyable. Staff are very helpful.
From NZ$74.00
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Operated by International Antarctic Centre