TO THE ICE!

 TO THE ICE!

 

 

I was greatly attracted to this itinerary for New Zealand  because of this planned visit to the International Antarctic Centre (it is how it is spelled). 

 

 

Our guide yesterday informed us the US Air Force presence in Christchurch is about 130 airmen. US Air Force C-17 Globemaster III and Hercules LC-130 aircraft fly from Christchurch to McMurdo Station and Scott Base in Antarctica.


As many of you who follow this blog know, I have Polar or Ice Fever. My interest and passion for the great age of polar exploration is beyond description. So this center peaked my interest. 

The ethos of the center is  “See it. Love it. Save it.”  They believe it is the spirit of adventure which draws people to the Antarctic (and I will add the Arctic)  and is the first step in becoming a passionate advocate.

This was a great experience and fueled my desire to return to The Ice of the South.

The Hagglund ride was interesting, as these are the primary vehicles used in Antarctica. 

Here, one can experience in addition to the Hagglunds, the Storm Dome, Penguin Rescue, HD Theatre and the 4D Theatre, and the Husky Dome. 

The Penguin Rescue  is where Little Blue penguins are on display and much information about them and current rescues taking place. 

The two theaters are great in giving one a great feel for the Antarctic. 

The Storm Dome is where the temperature drops and the wind howl to give one a feel for the conditions in Antarctica. Very KEWL and cool.

In the Husky Dome, a talk was given about the roll the sled dogs played in Antarctic exploration. The speaker brought his pack of huskies who added to the presentation.

Personally I really enjoyed this visit and could have used a bit more time to take in the exhibits. 

 

 



Then we were off to the Curators House in the Botanical Park for lunch. The Botanical Park is very nice and relaxing.

Next up was punting on the Avon river which flows through the botanical gardens. Relaxing and informative. 

 

 

Then this evening we were on our own for the evening meal. Our research led us to The Church Pub. 

Housed in a gothic renewal building originally constructed in 1875 as the Trinity Congregational Church. The Church was designed by Benjamin Mountfort. It opened in 1875 and is the oldest masonry structure in the central city.

Later, after the 2011 earthquake, the space was leased and thus The Church Pub came into existence. 

 

                          A restaurant area near our hotel.



We had their fish and chips and they were very very good. 



 

 

Back to the room to pack up and prepare for tomorrow.