Experience Antarctica In Ōtautahi Christchurch
Credit: Oi YOU!
Welcome To Ōtautahi Christchurch
The Gateway to Antarctica
We welcome all members of the Antarctic science and logistics community.
Ōtautahi Christchurch is a hub for those on the way or returning from Antarctica. Having you here enriches our city and we can't wait to show you around.
This place has welcoming people and new experiences to discover. See what attractions, activities and dining options might suit you to make your stay a memorable one.
National Antarctic Program Deals
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Iconic Activities & Attractions
Spend A Perfect Day In Christchurch
In Christchurch with a free day to fill as you please? With a little planning you can fit so much into just one day and we’ve designed this itinerary to inspire you. Whether you are solo, in a couple or a group, these ideas cover something for everyone.
Ōtautahi Christchurch
Antarctic Related Activities
Antarctic Gateway Walking Tour
Hear from scientists and artists, historians and curators, and discover the fascinating stories of Ōtautahi Christchurch's unique connections to the frozen continent.
Air Force Museum Of New Zealand
Displays the original aircraft used during the Commonwealth Trans-Antarctic Expedition of 1955-1958, co-led by Sir Edmund Hillary.
Akaroa Museum
Akaroa’s favourite son, Captain Frank Worsley, was the ship’s Captain and Navigator aboard Sir Ernest Shackleton’s 1914 – 1917 Endurance expedition. The Akaroa Museum commemorates Worsley's life of adventure. There is also a bronze bust sculpture situated near Akaroa's main wharf.
Black Cat Cruises
The award-winning Black Cat Group is internationally recognised as one of the success stories of the New Zealand tourism industry and an eco-tourism pioneer.
CoCA
The Centre of Contemporary Art Toi Moroki (CoCA) is a leading art gallery in Ōtautahi Christchurch, governed by the Canterbury Society of Arts Charitable Trust. The gallery has a rich history of supporting the development of arts practitioners and serving the community since it was established over 140 years ago.
Ferrymead Heritage Park
Includes the photographic darkroom of Herbert Ponting, a member of Captain Scott’s Terra Nova Expedition and the first professional photographer to accompany an Antarctic expedition. Also features a restored DC3 plane used for US Antarctic Operation Deep Freeze in the 1960s.
International Antarctic Centre
The only specialised Antarctic attraction in the world, providing a fun, interactive and informative way to learn about life on the icy continent.
Magnetic Observatory Workshop
The workshop is the last remaining building of the historic Magnetic Observatory. Early Antarctic explorers, local and international scientists, including Nobel prize winners, have made many discoveries here. Their work is now celebrated in a permanent exhibition open daily from 10am to 4pm.
