21 November 2011
Christchurch International Airport Ltd has bought the International Antarctic Centre from a private owner following a tough earthquake environment operating period for the tourism business.
Christchurch Airport chief executive Jim Boult said he was delighted to be adding the visitor attraction to the airport's portfolio.
The airport is owned 75 per cent by Christchurch City Holdings Ltd and 25 per cent by the Government.
"There is obvious synergy here - Christchurch Airport is the tourism gateway and the International Antarctic Centre is a cornerstone of the tourism industry," Boult said.
"The International Antarctic Centre has twice been judged 'best New Zealand visitor attraction' and visitor feedback and market research consistently show it is popular and well regarded by visitors as well as the industry."
The International Antarctic Centre included a number of ice-based events and rides including the Hagglund ride, the Antarctic storm, the snow & ice experience, the New Zealand penguin encounter and the new 4D motion and viewing experience.
Richard Benton had privately owned the International Antarctic Centre for the past 11 years and been a driving force behind much of its development.
Benton said the timing was now right to pass on the reins to the airport company, and he thought the attraction would continue to be developed.
In May Benton said the tourism industry in Canterbury was battling for survival after the quakes including the February 22 quake that saw 182 lives lost.
He suspected a number of businesses would not survive, he said in an interview at that time.
"These are really challenging times, particularly for tourism operators within our region."
He added in May that over the years ahead, that Canterbury tourism was going to need Government support to get back to the visitor levels the region used to enjoy.
The International Antarctic Centre had already cut staff at that point.
Boult today said the acquisition was in line with the company's strategic plan to increase non-aeronautical revenues and profit.
"Some of this will be achieved through the acquisition and development of complementary or closely aligned businesses," Boult said
Other Christchurch Airport initiatives included the development of Dakota Park freight and logistics light industrial precinct and Spitfire Square, a new retail development on airport land which has recently gained consent.
Christchurch airport will take over ownership of the International Antarctic Centre on December 1. The attraction's staff would be offered continuing employment.
