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SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's AquariumvsAuckland Museum
Both are praised by expert writers. On balance, Auckland Museum scores significantly better than Sea Life Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium. Auckland Museum comes in at 95 with approval from 6 reviews including Lonely Planet, Frommer's and Michelin Guide.
SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium
Frommer's
Fodor's
Lonely Planet
Afar Magazine
Michelin Guide
Afar Magazine
Frommer's
23 Tamaki Dr, Orakei, Auckland Central, New Zealand
From $0/night
"You might have imagined a live underground penguin colony; at Kelly Tarlton’s Penguin Encounter, it’s an amazing reality." Full review
i
For full insight into this unique self-sustaining population of king and gentoo penguins, make sure you pick up the free brochure
"This harborside marine park—the creation of New Zealand's most celebrated undersea explorer and treasure hunter—offers a fish's-eye view of the sea." Full review
"Sharks and stingrays swim over and around you in transparent tunnels that were once stormwater tanks." Full review
"Created by a deep sea diver / explorer / adventurer, Kelly Tarlton's is one of Auckland's Top 5 Attractions." Full review
1 Star
"Kelly Tarlton's Seal Life Aquarium is both sensational and educational." Full review
"Go underground to get up close and personal with the sea creatures of the Pacific and Southern Oceans...see Antarctic penguins, stingrays...and enjoy the interactive and educational exhibits" Full review
i
Check the website for feeding times and ticket discounts.
"Watching rays clamber up their keepers during feeding time in Stingray Bay, meeting king and gentoo penguins in a Penguin Passport tour, or freaking yourself out in a Shark Dive" Full review
Auckland Museum
Concierge
Frommer's
Fodor's
Travel + Leisure
Afar Magazine
Michelin Guide
Afar Magazine
Travel + Leisure
Frommer's
Travel + Leisure
Domain Dr, The Auckland Domain, Parnell, Auckland Central, New Zealand
From $0/night
"This Greek Revival museum, which sits atop the highest point of the sweeping Auckland Domain park, has the world's largest collection of Maori artifacts."
"The Auckland Museum houses the world’s largest collection of Maori and Polynesian artifacts." Full review
i
Be sure to take a stroll around the magnificent sculpture walk featuring eight works by New Zealand artists.
"Must-sees include a fine example of a pātaka (storehouse), a fixture in Māori villages, and Te Toki a Tapiri, the last great Māori waka (canoe)." Full review
"The Auckland War Memorial Museum is a stunning example of colonial architecture, with Greco-Roman grandeur and expansive views across Waitemata Harbour to Rangitoto Island." Full review
"With the country's—and probably the world's—biggest collection of Polynesian and Maori artifacts, the museum also regularly hosts exhibits and events." Full review
1 Star
"The Auckland War Memorial Museum, dedicated to victims of the First World War, stands in the verdant Auckland Domain." Full review
"Despite its official name, the Auckland War Memorial Museum is as much about New Zealand in peacetime as it is about memorializing lost soldiers. The collection of Maori and Pacific..." Full review
"Housed in one of the country's most magnificent heritage buildings, The Auckland Museum provides an insight into New Zealand's origins and evolution"
Auckland Travel Guide
May 16, 2022
"This first-rate museum experience gives a marvelous introduction to New Zealand history and culture. Its collection of Māori and Polynesian artifacts is the largest in the world." Full review
"For a close-up view of New Zealand’s culture and history, visit the stately Auckland Museum, where you’ll find a collection of national artifacts along with a rotation of exhibitions"
How to Plan the Perfect Trip to New Zealand
November 14, 2023