I used to love coming here but over the years it seems to have declined a bit. Unfortunately, the sting Ray tank was closed off. However, the tunnel is always good. There are a couple of interactive areas that are really great for the kids. I just think for the price you pay it's not great value for money.
Not worth the money. Lots of other things around the area to do. The only worth while thing to see are the penguins. If you can get a good discount then it might be worth your while.
Ventilation is poor in some areas. Felt cramped. Relatively small place, can go through within an hour going at a steady pace. Car parks are very limited, had to wait 10-15 minutes for someone to finish their session and leave the area, I guess it's reasonable considering the size of the venue. Great place for kids, can be educational. The normal price is a bit on the high side for what it offers, get it on discount if you can
This is a difficult review. I used to come here as a child and loved it. There is still a certain amount of nostalgia attached as a result.
Unfortunately, despite the injection of funds inserted as a result of becoming a Sea Life aquarium this place is looking a little worse for wear.
There are a lot of great attractions and excellent information available. It did however, feel smaller than other Sea Life Aquariums I have been to. Still a fun couple of hours before going to the airport.
We had a great morning here with Miss 3 and 4. The tickets are on the pricey side but the kids were engaged and excited for the 2.5 hours we took to go through. They especially loved the playground of course. We arrived at 1000 on Saturday and had no problems parking and no queue for tickets. When we left after lunch the car park was full and lots of cars queued up waiting for a park too.
Kelly Tarlton's is great for kids and parents. The tickets are not cheap - that was my only 'put off'. But we managed to get a good discount (free kids ticket) via the Entertainment book. I would recommend getting tickets with a discount as the normal price is $39 for adults, but a family pass is cheaper. With a discounted entry I thought it was well worth it. There is a lot to see including penguins, jellyfish, sharks and many many species of New Zealand fish. My son loved the whole experience and we will definitely be visiting again!
Located 10 minutes away from the city by drive, this place is a penguin paradise. They provide free shuttle service every 20 minutes past hour from Kelly Tarlton's to Quay St. The place provides friendly customer service at the front desk. Don't miss out on getting your photos clicked as you go ahead. This is one of the best souvenirs and memory to take back home. The cafe doesn't have much food options but the seating overlooks the scenic view of the city. If you visit, do not miss out the fish feeding. The map provides all the information. There's plenty of activities for the kids. While exiting, you go through the gift shop and this is the best place to purchase toys or gifts for loved ones. They have plenty of collection of key rings, accessories and so on. At last, you get to buy the photos and don't forget to grab a key ring and magnet that you can customize. Best time to visit is weekdays but this depends on your itinerary. Overall a fabulous experience and complete value for money.
Pretty steep prices considering the amount of tourists it gets but the marine life look happy so there you go. $80 down and my 2yo could only handle about 30 minutes of it. *sigh*
I have wanted to come here to see what the fuss was all about. This place need a bit of a spruce up. I have been to better Aquariums in Japan, America and other countries and this one can't compare to the sophistication and facilities. The staff also need to lighten up a bit. At least I have been but won't be coming back.
Good experience for the children, especially the tunnel aquarium and conveyor belt floor. Great for all ages. The penguin encounter has just been renovated and looks great. It's pricey but worth a visit every now and then.
First time ever going to an aquarium and it exceeded my expectations. We got the free shuttle and the driver is fantastic. Super informative and sets you up for the experience. Staff were friendly and informative. The cafe was fantastic. The exhibits were amazing. Loved the penguins and the stingrays. Will definitly go again next time we are up here.
My 4 yo insisted we go here and After visiting many other aquariums, I was waiting to see the same stuff and be disappointed . But wow this place delivered more than I expected. The penguin exhibit was impressive. I've never seen so many penguins in an aquarium. The other exhibits were equally impressive. Lots of sea creatures not seen in other aquariums and these animals are big and active. Worth a visit.