Christchurch Day 2

International Antarctic Centre

After a leisurely breakfast we drive to the  International Antarctic Centre. The reason why this centre is in Christchurch is because Christchurch is considered the gateway city for the research stations in Antarctic. It’s from Christchurch that planes transport researchers and their equipment to McMurdo Sound or other locations on the frozen continent.

The Centre is interactive and really well done. One of my favourite parts is a 4D Movie using 3D glasses and moving seats that takes you on a boat trip in and around the Antarctic. We are even splashed with water and have snow fall above us as part of the movie.

The Huskies

We listen to an excellent presentation by a Husky dog handler about the connection between the early explorers and their sled dogs and how much the explorers depended on the dogs to survive. The last time sled dogs were used in Antarctica was 1994 after which motorized transport was used exclusively. The presenter has four of his dogs with him which we get to meet afterwards. l so love getting close and personal with the Huskies.

Antarctic Storm Room

John’s favourite is the Antarctic storm room where we put on down jackets supplied by the Centre and go into a room simulating Antarctica with icy/snowy ground and temperatures of -8 ° C. Then they create an Antarctic storm with winds producing a -44 C wind chill.

Penguins

In addition the Centre has a rescued penguin area and lots of information. I also learn a lot more about climate change/causes.

Willowbank Wildlife Reserve

After lunching at the Centre, we head over to the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. I have to admit that John and I are one of the rare couples visiting without kids…but what do we expect, it is Saturday.

The park is really enjoyable. I love watching families feed the eels that practically jump out of the water for the food. Click here for the video.

I get up close and personal with an emu, get to pet a number of cool farm animals and have a black swan bite my foot.

There are also lots of exotic animals such as lemurs, gibbons, capiberras, and parrots including Keas to name a few.

There are so many birds and animals to see but our favourite are the Kiwis in their dark house. Click here for my blog from Queenston where I give some really cool facts about Kiwis.

Too soon the day is over and we

grab a few groceries and head back to our Airbnb to pack cause we have an early morning tomorrow.