UK-based 4D effects theatre specialist Simworx has supplied the first ever 4D theatre attraction in New Zealand to the country's International Antarctic Centre in Christchurch.

The newly opened 4D Extreme theatre currently operates with two films, one of which is shown during normal daytime opening hours and the other in the evenings for group bookings. The daytime film, entitled Ice Voyage, was custom produced and takes guests on a trip to Antarctica. The high definition footage was filmed by Emmy award winning cinematographer Mike Single and it is the first 3D movie to be filmed in this part of the world.

The cruise to Antarctica is enhanced by the various 4D effects which also feature in the theatre. These include wind, snow, water spray, low smoke and aroma, along with special effects lighting and 3 DOF (degrees of freedom) motion action seats. The film being shown during the evening opening period is the award winning Curse of Skull Rock, which tells the tale of the treacherous Captain Scabb and his unwitting crew as they search for the legendary lost treasure of Skull Rock. A fun, humorous, 12 minute adventure in full HD 3D projection, this again utilises the various special effects within the theatre.

Commenting on the installation, Simworx managing director Terry Monkton said: "We were very pleased to win the contract with the International Antarctic Centre. "We took them to see our 4D effects theatres at both Drayton Manor Theme Park and The Beatles Story here in the UK, which they were very impressed with and which clearly helped in making the decision.

"We used a local engineering company in Christchurch to help with the installation so the client has local, on-site support when necessary. "The project is also unique in the fact that it is the first theatre we have installed which is earthquake proof."