SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium?
What makes it 81% Baby-Friendly: Babies enter free, paths suit strollers, and there are nursing and change rooms, but no buggy parking and loud sound effects may unsettle some infants.
Positives:
- Free Baby Entry: Children under 2 enter free with a paying adult, reducing ticket costs.
- Easy Accessibility: Ramps and wide pathways let you navigate with a stroller or carrier.
Challenges:
- Cold Penguin Habitat: The ice exhibit is around -2°C; bring warm clothes for your baby.
- No Buggy Parking: You must keep your stroller with you; consider using a baby carrier for ease.
What is SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium?
- An aquarium converted from a former sewage-treatment plant situated beneath Auckland’s Waitematā Harbour
- A complex of eight themed zones featuring sub-Antarctic penguins, temperate reef species and transparent underwater tunnels for sharks and rays
- A conservation-driven marine research facility showcasing Southern Hemisphere species from rescued sea turtles to endemic fish and invertebrates
What is so special about SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium for with baby?
- Free entry for babies under 2 saves on ticket costs
- Stroller-friendly pathways and ramps help you explore easily
- Highlights include penguin habitat, shark tunnel, and jellyfish displays
- Parents’ room and baby-change facilities are available
- Interactive art and rockpool zones offer visual stimulation for your baby
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Babies can get restless; this covers main exhibits and allows breaks without overwhelming your baby.
Baby-Friendly Activities in SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium
Antarctic Ice Adventure:
Watch King and Gentoo penguins on artificial snow through large glass panels.
Tip: Hold your baby close by the low viewing windows to let them see penguins at eye level.
Underwater Shark Tunnel:
Walk through a transparent tunnel under sharks and stingrays.
Tip: Use a baby carrier for hands-free close views; keep stroller on flat sections.
Jellyfish & Amazing Creations:
See glowing jellyfish and draw creatures on a touchscreen art wall.
Tip: Let your baby gaze at the colors; sit on a nearby bench for feeds or naps.
Sea Cave Adventure:
View rockpool tanks with octopus, starfish, and fish in a bright setting.
Tip: Stand where your baby can see movement; talk about shapes and colors to engage them.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium
- Use a Baby Carrier: Navigate crowds and get closer views hands-free.
- Plan Feed Breaks: Use low benches near exhibits for quick baby feeds and diaper changes.
Reviews of SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium
The Kuzy Zee
We had my daughters birthday party here and hired the room which worked out to be more affordable and we were able to invite more guests. We were allowed to do our own catering which made it even better and the tour guide was amazing. Even though we were late staff were great and polite and friendly. We felt right at home. the kids loved it! The parents loved it too! So worth it.
Jassi Nagpal
Really enjoyed a seeing all the sea life with the family. The Penguins are the standout but the rest of the Aquarium is fun and informative with plenty of other animals to see. We booked tickets in advance to save time and money.
Danny Li
The aquarium overall was a pretty good experience. Great place if you love seeing penguins, turtles, sharks, jelly fish and other sea life creatures. Compared to other Sea Life we’ve been, it is smaller but it’s still a fun activity.
Marls D
As a party of 3, we visited Kelly Tarlton's. This place has been here for years. We thoroughly enjoyed our visit. The penguins are cute. Loved the Tuatara enclosure too. Highly recommend
s vivekananda
It is a popular public aquarium opened in 1985 in Auckland, New Zealand at 23 Tamaki Drive. Using disused sewage storage tanks, the aquarium used a new form of acrylic shaping, which allowed curved tunnels rather than viewing areas with flat panels only. They also used moving walkways for people to travel slowly through the viewing areas. Aquarium's main features are the Antarctic Encounter and th...
When is the best time to visit SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium (Auckland, New Zealand)?
Weekday mornings are quieter. Expect larger crowds during summer school holidays.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult tickets (x2) | NZD 70 |
| Snacks & drinks | NZD 15 |
| Total Estimated | NZD 85 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium
Address: 23 Tamaki Drive, Orakei, Auckland 1071, New Zealand
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About SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
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