Willowbank directors and siblings Mark and Kirsty Willis will take ownership of the centre in early December. Photo: Supplied
The International Antarctic Centre at Christchurch Airport has been bought by the family that owns the local Willowbank wildlife reserve.
Willowbank directors and siblings Mark and Kirsty Willis will take ownership of the centre from current owners RealNZ in early December.
The centre opened in 1992 at the airport on the International Antarctic Programme's working campus and was put up for sale by RealNZ, more than a year ago.
Willowbank Wildlife Reserve was founded by Michael and Kathy Willis 50 years ago and is home to many native species including kiwi, tuatara, kea, takahe and whio. More than 210,000 people visit the nature reserve each year.
Mark Willis said the two businesses have worked closely together over the years and have similar interests, particularly around conservation, advocacy and sustainability.
"We all know that the planet is facing huge challenges in terms of climate change and population issues and there is no place facing greater challenges than Antarctica."
He said the city had a long-standing connection to Antarctica through early explorers and the Antarctic programmes that are based in the Garden City. Christchurch is one of five cities in the world known as a "gateway to Antarctica" and is a conduit to the southernmost continent.
Willis said it was a privilege to be the next caretaker of the centre.
"The International Antarctic Centre has done a spectacular job with the international tourist market and at Willowbank we have a very strong domestic market so we are looking forward to trying to attract some more locals into the Antarctic Centre and making it part of the Christchurch fabric. It is an incredible asset for the people of Christchurch and we want them to share in it a little more."
He said they planned to retain the centre's staff, and invest in new and improved experiences over the next three years to attract more domestic visitors.
The International Antarctic Centre opened at Christchurch Airport 32 years ago, and now has new owners. Photo: Google Maps
RealNZ chief executive Dave Beeche said he was thrilled the International Antarctic Centre will be passed over to Willowbank.
"Their local knowledge and relationships, along with a commitment to both fantastic experiences and conservation, will make them ideal leaders for the International Antarctic Centre .
"We wish that team all the best for their futures and can't wait to see what's next for the iconic Christchurch attraction."
ChristchurchNZ head of visitor economy Kath Low said the sale was great news for the local tourism industry.
"For 50 years Willowbank has been managed by really savvy operators and it'll be really exciting to see them enrich the visitor experience at the Antarctic Centre.
"Christchurch and Canterbury are back as visitor destinations and the continued growth of our visitor sector is helping supercharge our economy. Willowbank's investment sends a strong signal that the future of our tourism industry is bright."
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