Want to go to Antarctica Without going to Antarctica? Here's how.

 A mere 5 minutes walk from Christchurch International Airport is  the International Antarctic Centre.  Built on the site of the International Antarctic exploration base this fantastic facility transports visitors, via immersive experiences, to this cold, wild, majestic continent.  Here you can learn about life in Antarctica, the work scientists do there and the ongoing conservation efforts to protect its fragile animals and environment. While very few of us will ever get to Antarctica this centre has to be the next best thing.

Here are the immersive experiences offered:

THE STORM DOME

 The Ice cave during the storm

For an authentic Antarctic experience go into the Storm Dome where you will experience an indoor polar storm. This is about as close you can get to Antarctica without actually going there and I think it is a must. Once inside the snowy dome the temperature will drop to minus 8 degrees celsius then a wind machine blowing a violent gale will drop the temperature to minus 18 degrees celsius. There is an ice cave you can shelter in but I preferred to feel the full force of the storm because, why not? But it sure is freezing!  Thankfully it only lasts for a few minutes but it gives you a good indication of what the conditions can be like in the Antarctic and what the scientists living there have to deal with.  

Inside the Storm Dome

HAGGLUND FIELD TRIP

This is an adrenalin rush, a 15 minute ride on a dual cab, tracked, all terrain, amphibious vehicle as used in Antarctica. On a specially designed course, adjoining the centre, you will be driven through water, along the side of steep slopes, over crevasses and along bumpy tracks. Marvel at what this incredible vehicle can do and how valuable it must be to the scientists of Antarctica. It is a thrilling, and at times, heart stopping ride.

Take the Hagglund for a thrilling ride

Part of the Hagglund course.  At the top of the slope is a crevasse the vehicle crosses with ease. It was too bumpy for me to get good photos

4D THEATRE

After donning 3D glasses you will find yourself completely immersed in  Antarctica in this  film. Not only is the cinematography stunning but you will feel mist and water blown in your face, you will have your seat shaken and jolted and feel things grabbing at your legs. You can really get the feel for the place from this experience.

LITTLE BLUE PENGUINS (KORORA)

The Centre provides a sanctuary for disabled and injured little blue penguins. In a carefully designed habitat the penguins can swim, rest, eat and play free from predators.  These are New Zealand's smallest penguins at only about 43cm tall and are incredibly cute.  Visitors can view them at any time but the best times are when they are being fed, although I have to say they didn't seem overly interested in food the day I was there. Nevertheless they were diving and swimming and generally waddling about while their keeper provided an interesting talk about the efforts going into protecting these penguins and those in the wild.

STATIC DISPLAYS

With all the excitement of the immersive experiences don't forget the informative static displays, including a reconstruction of Scott's hut. I found them very educational and learnt a lot. There is also a film of a year in Antarctica playing on loop.

HUSKY ZONE

Visitors are welcome to pet and cuddle huskies but unfortunately, on the day I was there neither were the huskies.  They are not always there so if that is your particular interest it would be best to contact the centre before a visit.

This was my first visit to the International Antarctic Centre and I loved it. I learnt a lot, enjoyed the immersive experiences and recommend it as a "must see" if you are in Christchurch.

NOTE:  I waited without luck for the shuttle bus advertised as leaving from Christchurch Museum.  I imagine that it is on hold due to lack of international visitors right now. You can catch the Airport bus instead.

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