Antarctic Centre Review

The International Antarctic Centre in Christchurch is a must-visit attraction for families. With its unique blend of interactive exhibits, thrilling rides, and up-close animal encounters, it's an experience your kids will never forget. We recently visited with our family and were impressed by the centre's engaging activities and excellent value for money.

By Benjamen Updated July 2026 6 min read

What to Expect

Upon arrival, we were immediately struck by the centre's immersive atmosphere, which transports visitors to the frozen continent of Antarctica. The highlight of our visit was the simulated -18°C Antarctic storm, which was both exhilarating and educational. The kids also loved hand-feeding the Little Blue Penguins and riding the Hagglund all-terrain vehicle.

The centre's interactive exhibits, which explore Scott's Terra Nova expedition, were engaging and informative, with plenty of hands-on activities to keep kids entertained. We spent around 3-4 hours at the centre, and it felt like the perfect amount of time to see everything without feeling rushed.

Age Suitability and Value for Money

The International Antarctic Centre is suitable for children aged 3 and above, making it an excellent destination for families with young kids. We found the centre to be extremely family-friendly, with plenty of amenities and activities designed specifically for children.

In terms of value for money, we were impressed by the centre's pricing, which is $65 per adult and $43 per child. Given the quality and quantity of activities on offer, we felt that the prices were very reasonable.

Ticket TypePrice
Adult$65
Child$43

Insider Tips and Best Time to Visit

To make the most of your visit, we recommend arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds. The centre can get busy during peak hours, especially during school holidays.

It's also a good idea to check the centre's website for special events and exhibitions, which can add an extra layer of excitement to your visit. We found the staff to be friendly and knowledgeable, so don't hesitate to ask for advice or guidance during your visit.

Booking and Saving Money

To book your tickets, simply visit the International Antarctic Centre's website and follow the online booking process. You can also purchase tickets at the door, but we recommend booking in advance to avoid queues and ensure availability.

The centre occasionally offers special promotions and discounts, so it's worth keeping an eye on their website or social media channels for upcoming deals. We didn't experience any significant downsides during our visit, but it's worth noting that the centre can get crowded during peak periods, so it's essential to plan your visit accordingly.

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