Best of Christchurch: Airforce Wings: Behind the scenes & Antarctic Ice Adventure
Moderate Activity
Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.
WHAT YOU VISIT
Royal New Zealand Air Force Museum (exclusive, behind-the-scenes tour)
One of New Zealand's premier attractions, the Royal New Zealand Air Force Museum exhibits the national collection of the Royal New Zealand Air Force and celebrates the country's aviation history. Discover a diverse and extensive showcase of historic aircraft, including the world's only Vickers Vildebeest biplane, aviation barracks dating back to World War I, rare military uniforms and medals, and recent restoration projects. Your guided tour enhances the experience by discussing the life and times of the people behind the planes.
International Antarctic Centre
The award-winning attraction features hands-on exhibits, video presentations, laser holograms, and stereo sound that brings the frozen continent to life. Follow the Antarctic seasons, witness the aurora Australis, and observe life in a penguin rookery. You will also be able to experience the temperatures of a real Antarctic storm. During the Antarctic Centre experience, ride on the Hagglund, a tracked and amphibious vehicle used in Antarctica, and see the film "Ice Voyage" in the 4D EXTREME, a virtual cruise to Antarctica with unexpected excitement and adventure that truly puts you in the middle of Antarctic waters without leaving the comfort of your seat.
PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES
The indoor and outdoor penguin viewing area at the International Antarctic Centre is home to little blue penguins in a Banks Peninsula natural-themed environment. Standing only 30 and 33 centimeters (12 and 13 inches) tall weighing 1.5 kilograms (3.3 pounds), it's the smallest of any of the world's penguins, with distinctive slate-blue or indigo-blue coloration of the feathers on the top of their body.
SHOPPING
Allow some time to visit the Antarctic Shop with its extensive range of Antarctic and New Zealand souvenirs and clothing, or stop for refreshments in the Antarctic Café & Bar (at your own expense).
WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
Sit back and relax as the approximate 30-minute drive from Lyttelton travels through scenic landscapes.
Points of interest
International Antarctic Centre
Schedule
Special Notes
Guests must be able to climb a few steps unassisted to board the transportation. Tour involves approximately three hours of moderate walking/standing over mostly flat surfaces. Other interactive activities are at the guests' discretion. Guests must be over 120cm tall to ride the Antarctic vehicle Hagglund. The Hagglund ride is only accessible via 5 vertical steps to enter the vehicle. We do not recommend the Hagglund ride for guests with heart conditions, back or neck pain or those who are pregnant. There will be time to eat and shop (at your own expense) at either of the venues. Tour order may vary. This tour does not include drop- off in Christchurch City Centre.
Exceptional Value
Book shore excursions with confidence! We offer competitive pricing, friendly service and unmatched destination expertise.
Moderate Activity
Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.
WHAT YOU VISIT
Royal New Zealand Air Force Museum (exclusive, behind-the-scenes tour)
One of New Zealand's premier attractions, the Royal New Zealand Air Force Museum exhibits the national collection of the Royal New Zealand Air Force and celebrates the country's aviation history. Discover a diverse and extensive showcase of historic aircraft, including the world's only Vickers Vildebeest biplane, aviation barracks dating back to World War I, rare military uniforms and medals, and recent restoration projects. Your guided tour enhances the experience by discussing the life and times of the people behind the planes.
International Antarctic Centre
The award-winning attraction features hands-on exhibits, video presentations, laser holograms, and stereo sound that brings the frozen continent to life. Follow the Antarctic seasons, witness the aurora Australis, and observe life in a penguin rookery. You will also be able to experience the temperatures of a real Antarctic storm. During the Antarctic Centre experience, ride on the Hagglund, a tracked and amphibious vehicle used in Antarctica, and see the film "Ice Voyage" in the 4D EXTREME, a virtual cruise to Antarctica with unexpected excitement and adventure that truly puts you in the middle of Antarctic waters without leaving the comfort of your seat.
PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES
The indoor and outdoor penguin viewing area at the International Antarctic Centre is home to little blue penguins in a Banks Peninsula natural-themed environment. Standing only 30 and 33 centimeters (12 and 13 inches) tall weighing 1.5 kilograms (3.3 pounds), it's the smallest of any of the world's penguins, with distinctive slate-blue or indigo-blue coloration of the feathers on the top of their body.
SHOPPING
Allow some time to visit the Antarctic Shop with its extensive range of Antarctic and New Zealand souvenirs and clothing, or stop for refreshments in the Antarctic Café & Bar (at your own expense).
WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
Sit back and relax as the approximate 30-minute drive from Lyttelton travels through scenic landscapes.
Points of interest
International Antarctic Centre
Schedule
Special Notes
Guests must be able to climb a few steps unassisted to board the transportation. Tour involves approximately three hours of moderate walking/standing over mostly flat surfaces. Other interactive activities are at the guests' discretion. Guests must be over 120cm tall to ride the Antarctic vehicle Hagglund. The Hagglund ride is only accessible via 5 vertical steps to enter the vehicle. We do not recommend the Hagglund ride for guests with heart conditions, back or neck pain or those who are pregnant. There will be time to eat and shop (at your own expense) at either of the venues. Tour order may vary. This tour does not include drop- off in Christchurch City Centre.