Queenstown tourism operator Real Journeys has bought Christchurch's International Antarctic Centre for an undisclosed amount, and plans to rapidly boost visitor numbers.
The family-owned company has bought the attraction from Christchurch International Airport in a deal that becomes effective on October 30.
Real Journeys chief executive Richard Lauder said the company moved quickly when the opportunity to buy the business arose six weeks ago, but would not disclose the price.
''We're a private company - we don't talk about those sorts of things.''
As part of the deal, it was committed to a multimillion-dollar upgrade to be carried out in stages over the next two or three years.
About 100,000 people visited the centre each year but it ''needs some love'', Mr Lauder said.
The company had a goal of boosting the number of visitors by up to 30% over the next two years.
''Using our expertise in operating quality visitor attractions, our market reach, and a little bit of love and investment, I think we'll be able to move the International Antarctic Centre up to a new level and deliver a better experience.''
The attraction's 50 staff would be retained on a ''business as usual basis'', and numbers could even increase over time.
It features rides on a Hagglund vehicle, penguins, a ''storm experience'' and audio-visual displays about New Zealand's Antarctic programme.
Christchurch International Airport chief executive Malcolm Johns said Real Journeys had a ''proven successful track record'' and had particularly strong links with the Chinese and Asian markets.
''The airport company took the attraction over three years ago, post-quakes, and the time is right to pass the baton to an expert in this area who can take it to the next level.''
The centre provided visitors with an authentic experience, being next to a working international Antarctic base.
''Visitors to this centre can see operational personnel and aircraft from the United States, New Zealand and Korea going about their daily Antarctic business.''
Real Journeys is a family-owned South Island business.
It operates TSS Earnslaw and Walter Peak High Country Farm in Queenstown, cruises in Milford and Doubtful Sounds, the Te Anau Glow-worm Caves, day walks on the Milford Track and Stewart Island ferry and tour services.
The company also has stakes in Black Cat Cruises, Queenstown Rafting and Milford Sound Flights.