Gateway to Antarctica: Ōtautahi Christchurch

05/06/2026

Talk about a tall tale... 👀✈️

The tails of two legendary RNZAF aircraft — the Hercules and Orion — have landed in a new exhibition at the Air Force Museum of New Zealand.

Both aircraft played important roles supporting New Zealand’s Antarctic programme over the decades, and now you can stand beside their enormous tails and appreciate just how big these aircraft really were.

A pretty cool addition to Christchurch's Antarctic story. ❄️

03/06/2026

Now this is a big Antarctic job. 👀❄️

Antarctica New Zealand is searching for its next General Manager Antarctic Operations — a pivotal leadership role supporting New Zealand’s work on the ice and the future of Scott Base.

Not your average commute! 👀

25/05/2026

Looking for something a little different to check out? 👀❄️

This could be right up the alley of a few of our Antarctic-curious residents…

A great chance to hear more about the polar regions, governance, science and some of the fascinating similarities (and differences) between the Arctic and Antarctic 🌍

📅 Date: Wednesday 27th May 2026
⏰ Time: 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm
📍Location: University of Canterbury, James Logie 613
🍎 Refreshments will be served

https://www.instagram.com/p/DYkGF0lhN8B/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==

New Zealand Institute of International Affairs - NZIIA - National Office University of Canterbury UC Science

13/05/2026

🐧💙 A pretty special full-circle moment for University of Canterbury PhD student Alexandra Strang — returning from 106 days in Antarctica studying the very Adélie penguins she’s been researching since 2021.

Great to see another example of the Antarctic research connections and opportunities linked to Christchurch as a gateway city. 👏

📍Thanks University of Canterbury for sharing.

08/05/2026

Curious about Antarctica and the changing world around us? ❄️🌍

University of Canterbury's free online course, Antarctica in a Changing Climate, explores the unique Antarctic environment, its ecosystems, and the role the icy continent plays in our global climate system.

Perfect for anyone wanting to better understand the science, stories and significance of Antarctica — from the comfort of home.

📚 Free online course
🧊 Learn at your own pace
🌏 Open to everyone

Enrol now via the University of Canterbury:

'Antarctica in a Changing Climate' is a free online course through University of Canterbury's UCx platform that explores the exceptional aspects of the Antarctic climate and its ecosystems.

07/05/2026

Happy 100th birthday to the legendary David Attenborough 🎉🌏❄️

For generations, Sir David has helped the world fall in love with our planet — from the deepest oceans to the frozen landscapes of Antarctica.

His storytelling has reminded us that places like Antarctica aren’t distant, empty spaces. They are deeply connected to all of us — shaping climate, oceans, wildlife, science, and the future of our planet.

As an Antarctic Gateway city, Ōtautahi Christchurch sees firsthand the global collaboration, research, logistics and care that help protect this extraordinary continent.

Thank you, Sir David, for inspiring curiosity, wonder, and action for 100 remarkable years. 💙

You can revisit some of his incredible Antarctic storytelling here:

Share your videos with friends, family, and the world

06/05/2026

So great to see this exciting milestone from our airport partners Christchurch Airport✈️🐧

Christchurch’s identity as a gateway to Antarctica really shines in this brand-new Antarctic-themed children’s play area — the final piece of a major terminal upgrade. From the C-17 play plane to interactive and sensory features, it’s a fun and inspiring way to bring the Antarctic story to life for travelling families.

A fantastic addition that celebrates what makes this place so unique — and a great experience for visitors starting their Antarctic journey right here.

👏 A brilliant result all round.
👉 Read more via Christchurch Airport: https://loom.ly/N_DXm9o

04/05/2026

❄️ As the cold sets in here in Ōtautahi Christchurch…

There’s something about winter that brings Antarctica a little closer.

Mighty Indeed is a powerful, multi award-winning documentary following three Antarctic researchers as they experience life and science on the ice — where the cold is constant, the challenges are real, and the perspective is extraordinary.

With stunning visuals, honest reflections, and a story that’s both confronting and quietly hopeful, it’s a reminder of the human side of Antarctic research.

Even better? It’s directed by a Christchurch local, Vanessa Wells - Elanti Media — showcasing the strength of storytelling coming out of our Antarctic Gateway city.

You might also recognise familiar voices from the Voice of the Sea Ice series.

👉 Watch now on Radio New Zealand (RNZ):
https://www.rnz.co.nz/video/mighty-indeed

NEW. Three women, spanning four decades, push the boundaries of science on Antarctica’s frozen ocean while grappling with profound questions about the future: for themselves & for our planet.