Ōtautahi Christchurch has been described as the Cape Canaveral of Antarctic exploration.

The NZ Antarctic Society delivers this guided walk to showcase our city’s rich Antarctic heritage and highlights how Christchurch supports scientific research being conducted by National Antarctic Programmes.

The 4 km long walk in the inner city and the botanical gardens starts outside the entrance to Tūranga, Cathedral Square side, and takes in a dozen Antarctic sites such as the Magnetic Observatory, Scott's Statue and the Canterbury Club, plus several other Antarctic points of interest.

At each site, a guide will discuss its Antarctic relevance.

Special requirements:

  • Wear suitable shoes for footpaths and gravel tracks in the gardens.
  • Check the forecast and wear appropriate clothing. Bring a jacket if necessary.
  • Wear sunblock and or a hat.
  • Bring a bottle of water and some snacks if required.
  • Toilets are identified along the way.
  • We only stop at the Antarctic sites of interest.