International Antarctic Centre

December 16, 2016 -- The day before we flew home, we visited the International Antarctic Centre in Christchurch, New Zealand. It was located next to the airport, as was a hanger of the United States Antarctic Program. As an attraction, the International Antarctic Centre ranks high, as good as any museum I had (have) ever visited. It was full of information, simulations, and hands-on experiences, including a ride on an all-terrain amphibious Antarctic vehicle. It made me feel like I'd actually visited Antarctica.

Opened in 1992

Distances

All terrain vehicles

What's inside?

Course for all terrain vehicles

Here we go!

Blue Eyed Penguins (kororā) are New Zealand's smallest penguins and in decline, for various reasons. The Antarctic Centre operated a penguin rescue. There was an indoor and outdoor viewing area where you could see the little penguins and their antics.

Blue Eyed penguins

WATCH A PENGUIN SWIM

I bought the whole set of souvenir pictures they took of us. 

In front of an all terrain amphibious vehicle

Next to Emperor penguins in Antarctica

Look, Blue-Eyed Penguins!

In front a a US military aircraft (with skis)

According to AI, the US Antarctic Program hanger houses aircraft for the program.  The planes are owned by the  New York National Guard. The are large and ski-equipped. The US Antarctic Program was established in 1959 and operates three year-round research stations and two research vessels. Christchurch has been the US gateway to the Antarctic since the 1950's. It is only one of five cities with direct flights to Antarctica.

US Antarctic Program hanger