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.
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
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
International Antarctic Center Admission Ticket
Excess luggage charges (where applicable)
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
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.
454 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
rotten 66,
Nov 6, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Lovely place, there are a few exhibit changes coming so some areas were closed. Did the "Storm Experience" and that certainly made you feel alive especially at -20ish Celsius. Watched the penguins swim around for ages, patted the Huskies, and rode in a Haggland. A great way to fill in a half day.
Annie R,
Nov 5, 2025
- Review from Viator
Awful experience here based on the employee Karen. We arrived 1:30 and began touring the site. As we were told to do by the employee stationed there, we waited for 15 minutes to enter the winter storm room. Right as it was our turn, Karen walks in and tells us we cannot go inside because she needs the next two times/turns for her large group that arrived at 2:00, a half hour after us. We were told we could see the rest of the center and return in 45 minutes, but they would NOT save or guarantee us a spot--we just had to get in line again. We had a flight to catch so couldn't wait. We should not have been kicked out of our waited for spot. We paid full price but did not get the full experience.
richardsE1968TT,
Nov 2, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
This was great! The tracked vehicle ride was great fun The Antarctic ice room (freezer) was informative fun and a challenge Overall good value
Regina R,
Oct 31, 2025
- Review from Viator
The ride on the Hagglunds was a blast, learning about the Antarctic science community and their research was fascinating and educational. Had a wonderful time.

theadamsfamilynz,
Oct 27, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Had a wonderful time. The girls loved the Huskies, Penguins, Snow Room twice, 4D Movie, and of course the Hugglund ride! A great way to spend the afternoon. Thanks
Travel27597763287,
Oct 26, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Had the best time, loved it all, especially the penguins and the 4D cinema ! Vicky on the reception was fabulous and Andrew the driver on the Hagglund ride was informative and made it so much fun!
Scott G,
Oct 26, 2025
- Review from Viator
A very informative and breathtaking experience with great staff. I loved the Haaglund ride and the 4D.
breanna l,
Oct 22, 2025
- Review from Viator
Don’t skip it! 10/10 experience! So fun! I feel like I have been to Antarctica! Engaging and educational
sallylX2709VV,
Oct 22, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
My husband and I went with our adult daughter to this museum. While I would say the target audience is probably children, we had a good time. It was fun to explore and this astronomer loved seeing the live pictures from the science stations, especially the Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB) telescope. This is a great activity for an overcast or chilly day. Getting to see the huskies (sled dogs) and chant with their handler was another highlight.
Dragana B,
Oct 17, 2025
- Review from Viator
Great experience. Lots of interactive parts along the way and heaps of interesting things to read. The ride was a highlight!
Operated by International Antarctic Centre