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Experience the best of SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium

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Quick overview

  • Ticket options: Standard General Admission grants timed entry to all exhibits; available in peak, off-peak, weekday, and weekend variants.
  • Zones and animals: The aquarium features an underwater shark tunnel, Antarctic penguin habitat, interactive touch areas, and conservation displays.
  • Unique experiences: Optional add-ons include animal encounters that provide behind-the-scenes access and focused interaction moments.
  • Queues & access: Pre-booked tickets help skip purchase lines, though all guests undergo entry scanning and may face brief waits in crowded areas.
  • When to book: Early weekday visits are recommended to avoid school groups and peak crowding.
  • Good to know: Most visits last about 2–3 hours; re-entry and cancellation policies apply as per ticket terms.
  • Best upgrade: Opt for the animal encounter upgrade for a closer, staff-led interaction with the penguins.

Which SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium ticket is best for you

Ticket typeEntrance usedLines skippedSecurityIncludesWhy pick thisCancellation policyPrice fromRecommended experience

General admission

Main aquarium entrance

Ticket desk

Mandatory checks at entrance

Access to all exhibits, shark tunnel, penguin zone, talks

• Typical visit 2–3 hrs • Skip purchase queue with pre-booked ticket

See ticket details

NZD 35

[Sea Life Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium Entry Tickets]

What to expect at SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium

Young woman scanning QR code at subway turnstile with smartphone for contactless payment.
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Arrival and entry

Enter through the waterfront main entrance along Tamaki Drive. Pre-booked tickets are scanned at turnstiles and a brief security check is performed.

Explore the shark tunnel

Step onto a moving walkway leading into a curved underwater tunnel where sharks and rays glide overhead, offering immersive photo opportunities.

Discover the penguin zone

Visit the Antarctic Ice Adventure exhibit where scheduled penguin talks and feeding sessions provide a close-up experience of the habitat.

Experience local marine life

Explore exhibits showcasing native fish and invertebrates along with conservation-focused displays that highlight local marine biodiversity.

Interact and learn hands-on

Head to the rockpool and interactive touch area for a safe, tactile experience with marine invertebrates under staff supervision.

Upgrade for behind-the-scenes access

Consider an optional animal encounter upgrade for guided tours that offer behind-the-scenes insights into aquarium operations.

Things to know before booking your SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium tickets

Booking window

• When booking your ticket, you choose a specific entry slot. This timed entry means you must arrive within the window you select.
• Popular time slots such as weekends and school holidays tend to be busier. It is recommended to book at least a few days ahead to secure your preferred slot.
• Tickets are available only online, helping you avoid the on-site purchase queue.

Entry & access

• All visitors enter through the main entrance where your pre-booked ticket is scanned. Standard security checks apply.

What’s included

• Standard General Admission grants one-time entry to main exhibits including the shark tunnel and penguin exhibit.

Ways to explore

• Most visitors spend about 2–3 hours exploring at their own pace.

Restrictions & policies

• Tickets are for single continuous entry. Re-entry is not permitted once you exit.

Zones at SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium

Boy exploring underwater tunnel at aquarium with sharks and fish overhead.
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Ocean Tunnel & Shark Gallery

Visitors begin their journey in the awe-inspiring Ocean Tunnel with panoramic views of sharks and reef fish.

Antarctic Ice Adventure

Step into a climate-controlled gallery featuring a colony of penguins and scheduled feeding talks.

New Zealand Coastal Seas Exhibit

Explore native marine life and invertebrates along a gently meandering path near the entrance.

Tropical Reef & Stingray Display

A vibrant gallery where stingrays glide alongside tropical fish in dynamic coral formations.

Rockpools & Interactive Touch Zone

Interact in a hands-on zone where visitors can safely touch starfish and learn about tide-pool ecosystems.

Conservation & Education Gallery

Discover interactive displays that explore ocean pollution and local conservation efforts.

Native Marine Life Gallery

An intimate exhibit highlighting indigenous fish and invertebrates from local waters.

Seasonal & Special Exhibits

A dynamic area hosting rotating displays and themed installations throughout the year.

Kids’ Discovery Zone

A lively, interactive space designed to spark curiosity in young explorers with hands-on activities.

Optional Encounter & Behind-the-Scenes Area

Access exclusive add-ons with guided sessions for a more intimate, behind-the-scenes aquarium experience.

Experiences at SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium

Experience curated sessions including talks, encounters, and interactive exhibits.

Antarctic Penguin Talk & Feeding

Join a staff-led talk at 12pm that explores penguin behavior and conservation in a sub-Antarctic setting.

Shark Tunnel Encounter

Experience the thrill at 10:30am & 3pm as expert commentary accompanies the mesmerizing movement of sharks.

Interactive Rockpool Session

Engage in supervised rockpool sessions at 11am & 4pm to safely touch starfish and learn about tide-pools.

Conservation Education Talk

Attend a 2pm session that details local marine rescue programs and sustainability efforts.

Must-see marine life at SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium

Two King Penguins standing on a sandy beach in a natural habitat.

King Penguin

Known for their size and charm, King Penguins captivate visitors with active swimming and group formations.

Gentoo penguin swimming in Antarctica Zone at Atlantis Aquarium.
Tourist in underwater tunnel observing sharks and fish.
Stingrays swimming underwater in a marine environment.
Visitor observing colorful fish at Aquarium of the Pacific.

Visiting Sea Life Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium with kids?

Sea Life Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium is ideal for family days out. Kids will enjoy the immersive underwater experience—from the awe-inspiring shark tunnel to the lively Antarctic zone populated by playful penguins. Interactive rockpool touch areas allow little explorers to safely feel starfish and learn about marine life.

Parents will appreciate family-friendly facilities including stroller-accessible pathways, dedicated baby-changing rooms, and an onsite café offering kid-friendly meals. The venue’s one-way layout and scheduled animal talks create a stress-free, memorable marine adventure.

Plan your visit to SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium

  • Opening hours: Daily from 9:30am to 6pm.
  • Last admission at 5:30pm.
  • Some exhibits may close 30 mins before overall closing.
  • Check online for seasonal adjustments.
  • Ideal for a compact, half-day visit.
  • Address: 23 Tamaki Drive, Ōrākei, Auckland 1071, New Zealand.
  • Enjoy scenic waterfront views along Tamaki Drive.
  • Bus: AT routes 774/775 (2–5 min walk).
  • Car: On-site parking available; allow extra time during peak periods.
  • Taxi/rideshare: Drop off at main entrance.
  • Main entrance faces Tamaki Drive on the waterfront side.
  • Pre-booked e-tickets are scanned at turnstiles.
  • Standard ticket holders join a short line.
  • Free Wi‑Fi available throughout.
  • Restrooms and baby-changing rooms conveniently located.
  • Onsite café and gift shop present.
  • Main entrance is step‑free and wheelchair accessible.
  • Clear signage and ramps provided.
  • Flash photography prohibited in sensitive exhibit areas.
  • Outside food or beverages are not permitted.
  • Children must be closely supervised.
  • On‑site café offers light meals and refreshments.
  • Nearby eateries provide diverse menus.

Visitor tips

  • Plan feeding sessions: Check the schedule and arrive early for penguin or shark feeding areas.
  • Avoid peak crowds: Visit on weekday mornings or later afternoons.
  • Family comfort: Bring an extra layer for chilly exhibits.
  • Exhibit etiquette: Keep voices low and avoid tapping on glass.
  • Pre-book tickets to bypass purchase lines.
  • Plan your route to explore at a relaxed pace.
  • Bring essentials like water and a light snack.

Frequently asked questions about SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium tickets

Yes, pre-booking is recommended—especially on weekends and school holidays—to secure a timed entry. Booking online helps bypass the on-site ticket purchase line for a smoother visit.

Read More

About SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium

Timings

Plan Your Visit