SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium
SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium
SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium
4
09:30 - 17:00
Monday
09:30 - 17:00
Thursday
09:30 - 17:00
Friday
09:30 - 17:00
Saturday
09:30 - 17:00
Sunday
09:30 - 17:00
About
SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium is New Zealand’s most famous aquarium! It is home to New Zealand's only sub-Antarctic penguins and offers a myriad of opportunities to get up close and personal with incredible marine life from the Pacific and Southern oceans. For a truly incredible experience, take the plunge on an Animal Adventure jump into the shark Cage and go snorkeling with massive sharks or jump on the ice and get up close and personal with the King and Gentoo penguins!
Suggested duration
1-2 hours
Features animals
Learn more about animal welfare in tourismSuggest edits to improve what we show.
Improve this listingTours & experiences
Explore different ways to experience this place.
Full view
Revenue impacts the experiences featured on this page, learn more.
Top ways to experience SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium and nearby attractions
The area
Address
Best nearby
We rank these restaurants and attractions by balancing reviews from our members with how close they are to this location.
Restaurants
993 within 5 kms
Attractions
207 within 10 kms
Contribute
Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
We perform checks on reviews
Tripadvisor’s approach to reviews
Before posting, each Tripadvisor review goes through an automated tracking system, which collects information, answering the following questions: how, what, where and when. If the system detects something that potentially contradicts our community guidelines, the review is not published.
When the system detects a problem, a review may be automatically rejected, sent to the reviewer for validation, or manually reviewed by our team of content specialists, who work 24/7 to maintain the quality of the reviews on our site.
Our team checks each review posted on the site disputed by our community as not meeting our community guidelines.
Learn more about our review moderation.
4.0
3,036 reviews
Excellent
1,223
Very good
1,046
Average
545
Poor
148
Terrible
74
Aussie_2012
Melbourne, Australia730 contributions
Jan 2023 • Couples
This place is an institution of Auckland so really wanted to visit and it did not disappoint. Price was a little on the steep side ($41 adults) but we did get to see some amazing animals in very good enclosures such as the king penguins in the ice habitat and the sharks and rays in the huge underwater experience which we went around 3 times it was so much fun. I didn’t find out about the encounter experiences but we did see some people having a close encounter with the penguins which would’ve been most memorable. There is so much educational information as well as a historical section dedicated to Kelly Tarlton himself. There’s a cafe and gift shop as well as an extremely educational and well done exhibit on Scott’s but in Antarctica. Arrive early as the place was packed and even a queue 15 minutes before opening. The car park too is a bit of a nightmare so more reason to get there early to secure a spot. Well worth it.
Written 7 January 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Tracy A
1 contribution
Jan 2023 • Family
Unfortunately Kelly Tarltons needs a huge overhaul to justify the entrance price. The open tanks and main (tunnel) aquarium is so badly dated and dull that kids around me were having more fun running around than actually looking at the sharks, rays and fish. It was also really hot and muggy which made for an uncomfortable 1 hour experience. On the plus side, the staff were awesome and the new Horse Kingdom was pretty. The IT section (draw a fish and create a digital version) was very cool. Heading in the right direction so fingers crossed more upgrades to come. A special mention to my mate Sam Tuitupou for recommending this place for adult children A+++
Written 3 January 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Gary Sheridan
Sydney, Australia68 contributions
Nov 2022
Part of three bus loads from the first big cruise ship in Auckland since the Covid lockdown. The aquarium didn't make the most of this at all. The whole place stunk of some sort of resin or fiberglass. Lots of people coughing and watery eyes etc and part of the place was closed (I assume). The cafe wasn't open either, so no food, drink or souvenirs.
Penguin part was good - but most reviewers are saying that. Shark tunnel was okay but those walk through tunnels are featured in a lot of aquariums.
The slideshow shown on the ship was good, but the place itself didn't live up to expectations and left me disappointed.
Couple of kids running around and they seemed to be okay with the place, but most adults in my group were outside after about 40 mins or so.
Penguin part was good - but most reviewers are saying that. Shark tunnel was okay but those walk through tunnels are featured in a lot of aquariums.
The slideshow shown on the ship was good, but the place itself didn't live up to expectations and left me disappointed.
Couple of kids running around and they seemed to be okay with the place, but most adults in my group were outside after about 40 mins or so.
Written 27 December 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Meilatan
23 contributions
Dec 2022 • Family
Website and signs say to book online but people were buying at the door. No price difference to buy online compared to at the door, despite what it says on line.
The aquarium itself was reasonably good, but not a great amount of colourful fish. My 3 years highlight was the playground at the cafe - halfway through.
The aquarium itself was reasonably good, but not a great amount of colourful fish. My 3 years highlight was the playground at the cafe - halfway through.
Written 21 December 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Kia ora Meilatan. Thank you for leaving us a review about your visit. We're sorry to hear that you didn't get to see many colourful fish in the aquarium. Most of our fish come from our local Hauraki Gulf Marine Park and we have these on display to show and educate all our guests. With our online booking system, this guarantees you entry into our aquarium just in case it gets really busy. If you buy your tickets in advance online during the week days, there generally is a discounted rate (this is excluding public/school holidays and weekends). We hope to SEA you again soon! Nga Mihi SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's :)
Written 26 December 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jacqueline S
21 contributions
Dec 2022 • Friends
I suggest you take a packed lunch with you. The cafe here is not fit for purpose, I think you guys are missing a trick, you have a captive audience and they all have to literally walk through the cafe to get to the exit. We visited the cafe at1pm and there was nothing left other than the last1/2 wrap. There was a queue and only one guy serving so even the ice,olly that we picked out of the freezer was all melting!
Written 12 December 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Rodman100
Wellington, New Zealand722 contributions
Nov 2022
Just a 10 minute drive from Central Auckland, parkin is at a premium, so best to take a bus or Uber. Booking is essential (also cheaper when booking online). There is an exhibit of Scott's Hutt and a penguin enclosure where you can see the penguins swim underwater. Also a walkway where you can see sharks, stingrays and other fish swim by your side and over you. About 60-75 minutes is enough time to view all the exhibits
Written 26 November 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
April N
Christchurch, New Zealand839 contributions
Parking is difficult and you apparently should book a time before arrival. Luck we were ok. A bit pricey, but did enjoy seeing the penguins, one even had a baby chick. Loved the stingrays but did feel like the tank seemed too crowded and small for all the fish, sharks etc. Kids in there did seem to ve enjoying themselves.
Written 29 October 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
AnnPhilip65
Auckland, New Zealand7 contributions
Oct 2022 • Family
Not stopping activities so early. Not rushed out before 5pm. If you want folk to be put you need to state 4:45, not say you’re open till 5pm. Felt pressured from 4:15 to leave, not good enough. Disappointed no octopus, eels the finale not there very disappointing. There should be something of interest at the end.
Written 10 October 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Solera
Thailand41 contributions
Aug 2022
This was a very fun and educational experience. Even though the place isn't really big, it certainly was the first aquarium that had the acrylic tunnel through which you can see sharks and other fish swim by you. Kelly Tarltan was a very inspirational man. I highly recommend you actually read through the information in the exhibit. I really had a wonderful afternoon. Going through the tunnel a couple of times felt like such a peaceful and serene experience. It really does feel like you are one with the ocean.
Written 28 August 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Kia Ora,
First off thank for taking the time to leave us this AMAZING Review.
it is absolutely heart warming to see that some of our guest like yourself take the time to Read through Kelly's Exhibit. i agree he is very inspirational. We appreciate Your recommendation and support we hope to see you next time.
Nga Mihi
SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's
Written 19 September 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Richard
1 contribution
Aug 2022
Very little to see and do, over priced for what there is available. Over $40 a ticket for 30-40 mins to see everything on that ticket.
Written 11 August 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Kia Ora,
Thank you for taking the time to leave us a Review, i hope when you next visit you manage to catch our Daily talk times and see and learn what we do for our beautiful animals in our care.
We also have multiple activity stations and interactive stations throughout the attraction for our guest and children to enjoy.
I hope your next visit with is better.
Written 6 September 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Vicki P
Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand5 contributions
Hi we are staying in Hobson street where do we get the free shuttle from Cheers
LoneTraveller61
Auckland Central, New Zealand75 contributions
152 Quay Street (bottom of Queen Street)
Athikumanan
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia19 contributions
Do we need to walk alot from the hop on bus station?
Bianca H
Auckland Central, New Zealand40 contributions
No, the bus stop is very close to the aquarium entrance.
sparrow8885
Te Puke, New Zealand
At what time do they feed the penguins and fish?
Nicola B
Ascot, UK70 contributions
The sign in the aquarium today said 14:00 tues & thurs for fish feeding.
Is there a family pass available??
I have 2 adults 4 children aged 11(triplets) and 7 yr old plus a 2 year old.
We would love to come through today before we leave town as we came here for our Christmas present to our kids.
Junamobley
Palmerston North, New Zealand9 contributions
Yes family pass available
Glen Y
Adelaide, Australia55 contributions
Whats the chances of getting a park at the Aquarium car park ,mid January, if you arrive early, say 9:30 in the morning.
VikramWKarve
Pune, India271 contributions
If you arrive early on a weekday you may get parking space right opposite the Aquarium. On Weekends - you may have to park some distance away in case there is a rush.
How do i veiw vistor pictures
Magellanic47
Bangkok, Thailand1,049 contributions
Hello Kharissa,
if you are thinking about the pictures that were taken before crossing the ice tunnel.. (and where you faking a shark attack)
These pictures were for sale at the exit of the Aquarium - in the general toy / souvenir section - they are not posted online.
Andrew Y
Charleston, SC6 contributions
With penguin experience, how close to the Penguins do you actually get?
Dawn4910
Marton, New Zealand37 contributions
Yes the penguins are behind glass for regular paying visitors, however when we went there was a small group within the penguin enclosure getting VERY close. I can only assume they were on the penguin experience as they were being spoken to by one of the keepers. Hope this helps
birdling
Sydney204 contributions
Hi, what is the best way to get to Kelly Tarltons from the cruise ship terminal, and how long would it take? We aren't taking the ship tours as they go other places too and we are meeting friends for lunch after. Thanks! It is 2 adults and a 3-year-old.
Cindy W
Auckland Central, New Zealand283 contributions
If you cant catch the Kelly Tarlton Shark Shuttle Bus the ordinary bus will drop you off outside. Here are the Shuttle details
Free Shuttle Service
The regular Shuttle Service is as follows...
7 days a week Kelly Tarlton's operates a FREE shuttle service from downtown Auckland!
Shuttle departs from 172 Quay Street (opposite the downtown ferry terminal).
The shuttle runs hourly on the HALF hour from 9:30am until 3:30pm, with the final pick up from downtown being at 3:30pm.
Alfred R
Jamesburg, NJ2 contributions
Does anyone know the average time it takes to see the aquarium?
Was trying to plan a day between the Aquarium and Waiheke Island. Is it too much to fit this into one day.
I plan to visit Jan-Feb of this year.
VikramWKarve
Pune, India271 contributions
It takes around 3 hours to see the Aquarium.
For Waiheke Island - you need an entire day.
Revenue impacts the experiences featured on this page, learn more.
SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium | Auckland Central | UPDATED January 2023 Top Tips Before You Go (with Photos) - Tripadvisor
Frequently Asked Questions about SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium
- SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium is open:
- Thu - Mon 09:30 - 17:00
- We recommend booking SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 1 SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium tours on Tripadvisor
- Hotels near SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium:
- (3.06 km) Ascot Parnell Boutique Bed and Breakfast
- (0.80 km) Nautical Nook Bed and Breakfast
- (2.36 km) Peace and Plenty Inn
- (4.04 km) Braemar On Parliament Street
- (4.32 km) The Hotel Britomart
- Restaurants near SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium:
- (3.44 km) Le Bistro Des Gourmets
- (3.44 km) Gerome Restaurant
- (3.47 km) Everest Dine
- (4.54 km) Ahi
- (4.64 km) Culprit.
- Attractions near SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium:
- (0.41 km) Tamaki Drive
- (0.64 km) MJ Savage Memorial Park
- (0.57 km) Bastion Point
- (1.18 km) Mission Bay Beach
- (2.35 km) MagicBroomstick (Segway) Tours