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International Antarctic Centre
Museum

International Antarctic Centre

New Zealand
4.6
(1,200 reviews)
13
Tours Available
$35
Adult Entry
2 hours
Recommended Duration
March-May
Best Time

Overview

The International Antarctic Centre is an immersive tourist attraction that offers a unique and educational experience about Antarctica. Visitors can explore the fascinating world of the frozen continent through interactive exhibits, simulations, and encounters with penguins.

The centre provides a valuable opportunity to learn about Antarctica's environment, wildlife, and the scientific research conducted there. It also offers insights into the lives of the people who work and live in the harsh Antarctic conditions.

Educational Interactive Wildlife

Location

Address

Corner Roy Place and Orchard Road, Christchurch Airport, Christchurch, Canterbury

Neighborhood: Christchurch Airport

Coordinates

-43.475800, 172.534800

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
tuesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
wednesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
thursday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
friday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
saturday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
sunday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission

Adults
$35
Children
$18

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds

Duration Recommendations

Minimum
1 hour
Recommended
2 hours
Full Experience
half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild

  • • spring exhibits

summer

warm

  • • extended hours

autumn

cool

  • • fall exhibits

winter

cold

  • • holiday lights

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

  • Book ahead
  • Bring ID
  • Check weather

What to Bring

essential

ID water tickets

recommended

camera sunscreen

seasonal

jacket umbrella

not allowed

large bags drones

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate

  • • stairs

Medical facilities: first aid available

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, cards

Currency

New Zealand Dollar

Typical Costs

entry $30
parking $10
food $20
souvenirs $25

Dress Code

casual, comfortable shoes, walking shoes, inappropriate clothing

Booking Tips

  • • 2 weeks
  • • official website
  • • 48 hours
  • • available

Amenities

Restrooms
Gift shop
Atm
Wifi
Lockers
Wheelchair rental
Stroller rental
On site restaurant
Cafe
Picnic areas
Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Official App

Size: 50 MB

Features: Map, Audio guide, Tickets

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe

Charging Stations: Rest areas

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Christchurch International Airport

Distance: 0.5 km

Travel Time: 5 minutes

taxi
$10 5 min
public_transport
$2 10 min

From City Center

Distance: 10 km

metro
$2 20 min
bus
$2 25 min
taxi
$20 15 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Unique experience

Historical Significance: Important events happened here

Insider Tips

  • Free entry early morning
  • Best food at back entrance

Local Recommendations

  • • Try local cafe
  • • Ask for guide John

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Kia ora
thank_you Kia ora
where_is Kei hea
how_much Te pea me pehe
beautiful Mauri ora
ticket Tikiti

Guide Languages: English, Spanish, French

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Penguin Encounter

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Low angle

Result: Great shot

#travel #wildlife

Photography Rules

allowed areas outdoor areas, public spaces
prohibited areas exhibitions, animal enclosures
flash photography not allowed
commercial photography permit needed
drone policy prohibited
tripod policy restricted
selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Air Force Museum of New Zealand

Distance: 1km

Walking: 15 min

Type: Museum

Riccarton House and Bush

Distance: 7km

Walking: 1h 30m

Type: Park

Reviews

4.6

Based on 1,200 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

  • "Book online"
  • "Visit early"
  • "Great views"

Contact Information

Related Tours & Activities (1)

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Quick Info

Available Tours

13

Rating

4.6 / 5.0

Reviews

1,200

Adult Entry

$35

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