Real Journeys will become the new owner and operator of the attraction on 30 October, investing in Christchurch’s tourism growth and the city’s 100 year relationship with Antarctica.
“This sets the International Antarctic Centre up for future success, with Real Journeys looking at a multi-million dollar upgrade of the attraction,” says airport Chief Executive Malcolm Johns.
“It will also see the attraction play a more significant role in connecting visitors to Christchurch with both our airport’s and our country’s long relationship with the Ice.
“Research tells us very clearly the Antarctic attraction in the middle of a working international Antarctic base gives visitors an experience other locations cannot replicate. Visitors to this centre can see operational personnel and aircraft from the US, New Zealand and Korea going about their daily Antarctic business. No other location can offer that level of authenticity to visitors and it’s important.”
The airport company took the attraction over three years ago post-quakes and Malcolm says the time is right to pass the baton to an expert in this area who can take it to the next level. Real Journeys will bring to this business a set of skills and experience which will set it up for success.
Real Journeys Chief Executive Richard Lauder says the company is looking forward to adding another iconic New Zealand attraction to its portfolio. He says the timing is perfect, as tourism returns to Christchurch and the airport experiences strong international airline growth.
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