PHOTO: Pioneering tech meets polar history as Te Papa opens immersive Antarctic VR experience for the school holidays — and it’s 100% free. Te Papa – FILE
🕶️ Step Into History: Te Papa Brings Antarctica to Life in World-First VR Exhibit
Wellington has just become home to Antarctica’s most iconic hut — virtually. In a world-first fusion of exploration history and immersive technology, Te Papa Museum has unveiled a free virtual reality experience that transports visitors to Captain Robert Falcon Scott’s Discovery Hut, originally built in 1902 on Ross Island.
The VR tour, which launched in Wellington this week, is part of a collaboration between the Antarctic Heritage Trust and cutting-edge Kiwi tech firm StaplesVR. The project took more than 1100 hours and a 15-person team to recreate — with stunning results.
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🧭 The Experience: Seal Stew, Huskies, and Balloon Rides Over McMurdo Sound
Donning a VR headset, visitors are placed directly inside Scott’s historic base — complete with snow-covered huskies, penguin colonies, and a bubbling pot of seal meat on the iron stove.
“I gave the huskies a little pat,” joked Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage Paul Goldsmith, after trying the VR firsthand at Te Papa.
His favourite moments? A hot air balloon ride over the icy McMurdo Sound and a moment of virtual bonding with Scott’s sled dogs.
🧒 Perfect School Holiday Activity: Kids Rave About Antarctic Adventure
The exhibit, open daily until Sunday 13 July, has already drawn dozens of families seeking something educational and unique to cap off the school holidays.
“I liked the balloon ride because you could see everything from up high,” said 11-year-old Laila. “And the penguins were so cute — but no stink!”
Her brother Emilio added, “Feeding the huskies dog biscuits was the best part.”
Parents are praising the experience for its environmental and historical themes.
“It’s an awesome way to get kids thinking about Antarctica and climate,” said Luis, a Wellington parent.
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🧪 Preserving Antarctic Legacy Through Immersive Tech
The initiative is more than just entertainment — it’s part of a wider campaign by the Antarctic Heritage Trust to digitally preserve and promote Scott’s expedition legacy.
“This lets people experience what life was really like for early explorers,” said Trust executive director Francesca Eathorne.
“You can see how the hut was used to support science and survival — and even go for a ride in a hydrogen balloon, just like Scott did.”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E59BF11W78c
🌍 Touring the World, Landing in Wellington
Since its international debut in August 2024, the VR tour has appeared at museums, schools, and science institutions across the UK, and now lands in New Zealand’s capital in partnership with Te Papa.
“We’re proud to offer this incredible heritage experience to Wellingtonians,” said Te Papa chief executive Courtney Johnston.
“It connects past and future — using digital tools to bring our environment and history to life.”
📍 Plan Your Visit: Free Entry, Limited Time
The Scott’s Discovery Hut VR experience is open at Te Papa until Sunday, 13 July 2025. Entry is free, but bookings are essential via Te Papa’s website.
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Age limit: 11+
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Cost: Free
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Where: Te Papa, Wellington
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Booking: Required online
SOURCE: RNZ