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VISITOR INFORMATION

Getting Here

The International Antarctic Centre is the world’s premier Antarctic experience, and it’s just a short sled-ride from Christchurch city or a quick penguin waddle from the airport.

To be more precise, the International Antarctic Centre is approximately a 15-minute drive from Christchurch central city or a 5-minute walk across the road from the Christchurch Airport terminal.

If you’re taking public transport, the No. 8 bus stops right outside the International Antarctic Centre or the No. 29 bus is only a short walk away. You can find timetables and more details at Metro.

Daily Shuttle

We’ve teamed up with Willowbank Wildlife Reserve for a hassle-free, cost-effective daily shuttle between Cathedral Square and our iconic attractions. Tickets are $15 per person for the full circuit, and kids under 5 ride free. Pre-bookings aren’t required. Visit www.chcshuttle.nz to see the shuttle timetable.

Map Marker 38 Orchard Road, Christchurch Airport

Phone Phone: 03 357 0519

Hours of Operation

International Antarctic Centre:

Clock Monday – Sunday, 9 am – 4:30 pm

The Cafe:

Coffee  Monday – Sunday, 9 am – 4:30 pm

Conferences & Events:

Looking to book a conference or event outside of opening hours? Contact events@realnz.com for more info.

International Antarctic Centre Map:

diagram, schematic

GENERAL INFO

GIFT STORE

We’re confident that the memories you make here will last a lifetime. But why take anything to chance? Take a little piece of Antarctica home with you in the shape of a gift, souvenir and memento.

At our retail store, you’ll discover a wide range of not-so-hidden treasures. Be it exciting gifts for friends and family, or a special keepsake for you, there’s always something super-cool or heart-warming to be found on the shelves.

  • Hours: Open Daily 9am - 4:30pm

CAFÉ

As all good explorers know, you need to keep your engine fueled up to have the energy necessary to move from point A to B. With all the amazing points in our centre you’ll certainly need some delectable fuel to sustain the journey. With indoor and outdoor seating areas, the focus of this café is on delicious, fresh, seasonal food served in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Here you’ll find a range of tasty menu options to fuel your explorations. We pride ourselves on our handcrafted baked goods and, with a number of gluten and dairy-free options, there’s something for everyone (excluding the penguins and huskies – they’ve got their own special diets).

  • Hours: Open Daily, 9am - 4:30pm

COVID CLEAN APPROVED

TOILETS & BABY CHANGING FACILITIES

There are toilets available at the entrance to the attraction as well as in the attraction next to the 4D exit for your convenience.

These are also wheelchair accessible and have baby changing facilities.

WHEELCHAIR ACCESS

We are wheelchair accessible. We have wheelchair lifts to access our meeting rooms on the mezzanine floor and in the attraction to gain access to the penguin viewing area.

Traveling in the Hägglund requires that you are able to board and disembark unassisted. If traveling by car there are 3 designated accessible parking spaces available for your use at the entrance.

LUGGAGE STORAGE

Have some luggage to store while you enjoy Antarctica? Ask our friendly ticketing crew and we’ll be happy to help!