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Antarctica

A continent of extremes

Antarctica Neko Harbour

Wild, remote and utterly breathtaking

Antarctica is a continent of extremes. It’s at once beautifully tranquil and savagely fierce. It’s a land of pristine whiteness, where gigantic icebergs carved by the elements pierce the sky from the ocean. Incredible shades of blue pass by on floating ice chunks, while the roar of glaciers echoes between mountain walls. The coastal shores and sub-Antarctic islands are home to hundreds of bustling penguin rookeries, seal colonies and nesting seabirds.

Perhaps the world’s last true frontier, Antarctica is simply awe-inspiring. Much like in the days of early exploration, it’s weather and ice, not clocks and calendars, that will set the schedule here.

Antarctica is so wildly remote that travelling by ship is the only way to visit. Cruises and expedition vessels depart from Argentina and New Zealand, generally between November and March. In these months, the sunlight is long, the sea ice melts enough for ships to pass and temperatures nudge over freezing.

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Flight time

Reaching the Great White Continent from New Zealand is a true odyssey. Most travellers take a long-haul flight to Ushuaia, Argentina, to board an expedition ship for a two-day crossing of the Drake Passage. However, if you're looking for an epic voyage departing closer to home, specialist expedition cruises leave directly from Bluff or Hobart. These are deep-south adventures that can last up to 30 days, navigating through the sub-Antarctic islands before finally reaching the Ross Sea.

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Best time to go

The best times to visit Antarctica are during the austral summer (November to March). This is when temperatures are milder, sea ice retreats, and wildlife activity is at its peak, allowing expedition access.

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Time difference

Antarctica, surprisingly, is in the same time zone as New Zealand, meaning no adjustment is needed. How good!

TIPS FOR YOUR ANTARCTICA ADVENTURE.

 

  1. GET GROUNDED.
    Smaller expedition-style ships are often more expensive and include fewer amenities than larger cruise ships, but they offer passengers the opportunity to disembark and enjoy excursions like tramping and snowshoeing. Because of restrictions limiting tourist numbers in Antarctica, large ships may only offer scenic cruising and not land experiences. Make sure to talk to your consultant about this distinction.

  2. WILD WATERS.
    The Drake Passage — the waters between South America and Antarctica — and the Southern Ocean are notoriously rough but Antarctica is worth it! Ask your doctor about seasickness drugs, bands and patches and arrive prepared. Ships these days have excellent stabilisers, so you’ll be as comfortable as possible.

  3. DAZZLING DEPARTURES.
    Cruises from New Zealand are much more expensive and longer than cruises from South America — simply because they must cover more ocean to arrive. Depending on your departure point, you’ll visit different spots in Antarctica.

  4. ALL ABOUT THE WEATHER.
    Antarctica cruise itineraries are hopeful suggestions. Ship captains make amends en route based on weather and ice conditions so passengers have the best chances of landing onshore.

  5. SUITCASE SAVVY
    Packing for an Antarctic cruise can be easy. Ask your consultant what your cruise line lends and gives passengers: You’ll find most give guests excellent quality jackets to keep and lend out cosy boots for landings. Even if you own the gear, it can be nice to pack lighter.

Our Antarctic specialists

Kali Abbott

Kali Abbott

House of Travel Prestons

My passion for travel begun when living in London. I was constantly booking getaways to explore all UK and Europe have to offer and I have not stopped exploring since!

Coming home, I have been privileged to take many long breaks to explore different parts of the world. - Some highlights include USA and Tahiti. 

Now having a family, I see travel in different light and really enjoy slowing down and embracing every moment. 

Travel is for everyone; the world has so much to offer!

I joined the travel industry just over 6 years ago and have helped many people book their dream holidays, I can't wait to help you with yours!


Kali

Monique McKechie

Monique McKechie

House of Travel Nelson

Hello there! You may be asking, "Why choose me?" Truth be told, I've never been one to wax lyrical about myself. But ask me about travel—my real passion—and I could chat with you for hours, sharing experiences and hearing about yours!

I'm tremendously honored to have been part of the travel scene for 15 fabulous years. This isn't just work for me; it's a love affair that defies reason. The joy of facilitating someone's journey is unparalleled. Travel is the key to personal growth, offering insights that enhance our souls and let us cherish the beauty of our world.

I pride myself on my unwavering dedication to delivering exactly what you're seeking. I live for those moments when clients find the joy and ease in travel, and I’m dedicated to ensuring you get the holiday you’ve been dreaming of.

If you’re on the lookout for a travel consultant who truly cares and stands by you throughout—and beyond—your journey, look no further. I'll make sure that every detail aligns perfectly with your desires, from selecting the ideal ship or tour to finding the right accommodation. Reach out, and let's brainstorm your next adventure together.


Monique

Courtney McCormack

Courtney McCormack

House of Travel Morrinsville

Travel is truly in my blood. My grandparents sparked the travel bug in my mum, and she passed that passion on to me. From the moment I took my very first holiday at age three, a magical trip to Disneyland, I was hooked. Growing up, I listened to my mum’s stories from her OE, my cousins’ globe-trotting adventures, and my sister’s explorations, all of which fueled my own wanderlust.

Over the years, I’ve lived in Scotland, as well as in England and Ireland, soaking up different cultures and ways of life. I’ve been fortunate to travel extensively, exploring incredible destinations including Jordan, Israel, the USA, Australia & Europe. I’ve experienced the security and ease of organised solo travel with Contiki and Topdeck tours, but I’ve also embraced the challenge and freedom of planning my own trips, like eloping in Denmark, which remains one of my most cherished adventures.

With a background in hospitality, I combine practical knowledge with genuine care to craft holidays that are personalised, meaningful, and seamless. I love getting to know your unique travel style and what matters most to you, whether that’s family fun, a romantic escape, or a bucket-list adventure.

I’m not just your travel consultant; I’m your travel cheerleader. I’ll celebrate every countdown with you, smooth out any bumps along the way, and be just as excited when everything comes together perfectly. My goal is to take the stress out of travel planning, so you can focus on making memories.

Let’s work together to create a travel experience that’s not only unforgettable but uniquely yours.


Courtney

Jessica Osbourn

Jessica Osbourn

House of Travel Papamoa

I have always been a lover of travel, family holidays as a child sparked my love of seeing the world. I was born in England, moving to New Zealand with my family at the age of six. Drawn to the outdoors and the natural beauty of the world, I enjoy nothing more than exploring new landscapes, immersing myself in local living or being a major tourist. Whether that’s wondering narrow streets, exploring a big city or lounging on a sun-soaked beach.

In addition to my knowledge of travel, I'm currently training to become a Contiki champ with a passion for adventure and a love of meeting new people, I am eager to help you plan your own exciting Contiki, Top Deck, G-adventures or Intrepid tour and create unforgettable memories. 

I was fortunate enough to be sent to Disneyland California and loved every aspect of its adrenaline packed adventure. It is an unforgettable trip and I cant wait to help others book their magical Disney holidays. 

With a passion for adventure and a keen eye for detail, I’m always on the lookout for hidden gems, unique experiences and trending destinations. Whether you're looking for a thrill-seeking adventure or a peaceful escape into nature, I have the drive to help you plan the trip of a lifetime.

Jessica

Our fave customer holiday pics in Antarctica

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