On Tamaki Drive in Orakei, SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium brings Auckland’s marine life and Antarctic penguins indoors. Walk through the curved underwater tunnel as sharks, stingrays and fish pass overhead, then spend time watching the penguins swim in their icy habitat. Exhibits also include turtles, jellyfish and seahorses, while a display about Scott’s Antarctic expedition adds a historical stop. Interactive rock pools let you get close to starfish. It’s an easy family outing, but take your time: there is plenty to see beyond the main tunnel.
Auckland’s aquarium beneath Tamaki Drive
SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium is at 23 Tamaki Drive in Orakei, beside Auckland’s waterfront. It opened in 1985, created by New Zealand diver and marine archaeologist Kelly Tarlton. The aquarium was built underground in disused sewage storage tanks, an unusual setting for its marine exhibits.
Its curved viewing tunnels changed how visitors could see aquatic life: instead of looking through a flat window, you walk through the tank as animals move around and above you. A moving walkway runs through the tunnel, or you can make your way around on foot. Sharks and stingrays are among the animals that pass overhead. Going around more than once can give you a different view as the animals move through the water.
Penguins and marine habitats
The Antarctic area is home to king and gentoo penguins. Watch them on land and underwater; their movement through the water is especially striking. The aquarium’s exhibits also include sharks, stingrays, turtles, jellyfish, seahorses, octopuses, lobsters and other fish. The range gives you reasons to pause at the tanks rather than treating the tunnel as the whole visit.
Interactive rock pools let visitors encounter starfish. There are also talks that explain more about marine life, and the aquarium has a turtle rescue centre. The exhibits cover animals from Auckland’s local waters as well as species from other marine environments. Children can take a break in the indoor play area, while the café provides a place to sit during the visit.
Scott’s Antarctic expedition and planning your visit
A display about Scott’s Antarctic expedition gives the aquarium a historical dimension alongside its animal exhibits. Scott’s Hut and related objects help tell the story of exploration in Antarctica. Set aside a little time to look through this area, especially if you’re visiting with children or have an interest in the history of polar expeditions.
The aquarium is an indoor option for a rainy day, and families with children of different ages can find exhibits to explore. Wheelchair access is available, and the venue has an accessible entrance, restrooms and parking. Food choices inside are limited, so bringing snacks or lunch can help if you want more options. Water refill stations are available. Weekends can be busier, so a weekday visit may offer a quieter pace. The aquarium is open daily; check its official website for current ticket details before you go.
Preguntas frecuentes
Where is SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium?
It is at 23 Tamaki Drive in Orakei, on Auckland’s waterfront.
What can you see at the aquarium?
Exhibits include penguins, sharks, stingrays, turtles, jellyfish, seahorses and other marine life. There is also a curved underwater tunnel, interactive rock pools and a display about Scott’s Antarctic expedition.
How long should you spend at SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium?
Allow around 2 to 3 hours to explore the exhibits at a relaxed pace.
Is the aquarium wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The venue has a wheelchair-accessible entrance, restrooms and parking.
