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SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium

Visit SEA LIFE Kelly Tarltons Aquarium and marvel at the world's largest sub-Antarctic penguin colony and get up close with incredible marine life through underwater viewing tunnels.
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SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium
Tourists interacting with penguins at SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium.
Penguins on ice at SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium, Auckland.
Octopus among seaweed at SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium, Auckland.
Children observing clownfish at SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium, Auckland.
Visitors observing marine life in the tunnel at SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium, Auckland.
Child drawing at SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium interactive area.
Children exploring interactive display at SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium.
Child touching starfish at SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium touch pool.

Sea Life Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium Entry Tickets

Book now, pay later
1 hr

  • Enjoy 20% off when you book by 22 February 2026, with travel valid through 31 March 2026.

  • Discover a unique underwater world and meet new aquatic creatures.

  • Walk through the famous Shark Tunnel in the world’s first curved aquarium.

  • Meet the largest penguin colony on display in the Southern Hemisphere at Antarctic Ice Adventure.

  • Witness the enthralling Spiny Sea Dragon in the Seahorse Sanctuary, the only place in the world to have it on display.

  • Let kids enjoy the indoor playground at the aquarium with the Splash Table.

  • Spot the colorful marine life from the Southern Ocean in a dedicated zone.

  • Get a glimpse of what it was like to live in the coldest place on Earth 100 years ago.

  • Create your own sea creature and watch it swim on an interactive projection wall.

More details

  • Enjoy 20% off when you book by 22 February 2026, with travel valid through 31 March 2026.

  • Discover a unique underwater world and meet new aquatic creatures.

  • Walk through the famous Shark Tunnel in the world’s first curved aquarium.

  • Meet the largest penguin colony on display in the Southern Hemisphere at Antarctic Ice Adventure.

  • Witness the enthralling Spiny Sea Dragon in the Seahorse Sanctuary, the only place in the world to have it on display.

  • Let kids enjoy the indoor playground at the aquarium with the Splash Table.

  • Spot the colorful marine life from the Southern Ocean in a dedicated zone.

  • Get a glimpse of what it was like to live in the coldest place on Earth 100 years ago.

  • Create your own sea creature and watch it swim on an interactive projection wall.

from
NZ$44.16

Pro tips to help you make a pick

Best viewing times: Visit during penguin feeding times to see them in action; check the daily schedule online.

Plan for interaction: Take advantage of the touch pool experiences and behind-the-scenes tours for a hands-on encounter.

Arrive early: Mornings tend to be less crowded, offering a more relaxed visit.

Combine with nearby attractions: Consider exploring nearby Auckland waterfront attractions for a full day of activities.

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About SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium

SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium, set along Auckland’s waterfront, features interactive exhibits, rare marine species, and captivating underwater views. From penguins to stingrays, it’s a must-visit for a fun and educational experience.

Did you know?

It houses one of the largest penguin exhibits in the world, featuring both king and gentoo penguins.

The aquarium was created by Kelly Tarlton, a pioneering marine archaeologist, who repurposed old sewage tanks into the aquarium's tunnels.

It was the first in the world to introduce curved acrylic tunnels for an immersive viewing experience.

Home to rescued sea turtles, the aquarium plays a key role in their rehabilitation and release back into the wild.

The Antarctic Encounter features ice-filled habitats with live snow, creating a realistic polar environment for penguins.

Why visit SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium?

World's first curved shark tunnel

Walk through the world's first underwater tunnel and come face-to-face with fearsome sharks and graceful stingrays.

Antarctic ice adventure

Witness the majestic penguins in one of the world’s largest Antarctic penguin colonies in an indoor setting.

Interactive experiences

Explore hands-on touch pools and encounter marine species like starfish and sea cucumbers.

Conservation initiatives

Learn about marine conservation and SEA LIFE’s efforts to protect New Zealand’s marine ecosystems.

Family-friendly fun

With exhibits designed to educate and inspire, it’s the perfect destination for kids to connect with marine life.

Plan your visit

Address

23 Tamaki Drive, Orakei, Auckland 1071, New Zealand

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