National Aquarium of New Zealand — Attraction in Napier

We stopped by after a late lunch so we pretty much missed all of the feedings throughout the day. The aquarium wasn't very big so we were able to have a fairly slow look around in the hour that was left before closing. The first area we came across after climbing up the stairs was the lab. It had a few hands on things like the tsunami generator but mostly a lot of reading for information about the ocean. After heading out we were at the displays. There were a few different areas with unique displays. The hard part, like any other aquarium or zoo, is matching the pictures with the fish in the tanks. The displays were quite immersive and reflected the environment where the fish could be found, whether it is a stream or the ocean. It also had other creatures not from the sea, particularly the kiwi and the tuatara. We were able to see the kiwi but couldn't find the tuatara. The last area is the big oceanarium which had a conveyor belt on the floor but wasn't running when we were there. It was nice watching all the different sea creatures swim all around you including the sharks, rays and pufferfish. Although we were able to get through within an hour, it would have been just as easy to take your time and stroll through the different areas and take a more leisurely approach. We were leaving the next day so we didn't have that option. It was a really nice place to spend some time particularly since it was raining. The creatures inside were not the only thing to enjoy, the outside of the aquarium has an amazing mural which should also be appreciated. Interestingly, from a distance, the aquarium looks like the...

The National Aquarium of New Zealand in Napier is an absolute gem! From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted by a wide array of fascinating marine life. The penguin enclosure is a highlight, offering a close-up view of these adorable creatures, while the underwater tunnel provides a mesmerizing experience, as sharks and rays glide gracefully overhead. The exhibits are well-maintained and informative, making it a perfect spot for both kids and adults to learn and have fun.

The staff are incredibly friendly and knowledgeable, always ready to share interesting facts and answer any questions. The aquarium’s focus on conservation and education is evident throughout, which adds depth to the visit.

In addition to the amazing exhibits, there’s a cozy café offering a range of delicious food and beverages, perfect for a relaxing break. The gift shop is well-stocked with unique souvenirs and marine-themed gifts, making it easy to find something special to remember your visit.

The layout is easy to navigate, and there’s something new to discover at every turn. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, the National Aquarium offers a wonderful experience that’s both educational and entertaining. Highly recommend it to families, couples, and solo...

Sadly, many of the animals are confined to very small spaces. The massive turtle was swimming back and forth in a small aquarium, appearing visibly distressed. It reminded me of chained elephants swaying their heads in desperation. Similarly, four frogs were trapped in a tiny enclosure, and a fish with its fins clamped down was another troubling sight.

In healthy, relaxed fish, fins are typically held upright, indicating they are alert and in good condition. Clamped fins, on the other hand, can be a sign of illness or stress, often linked to poor environmental conditions. Possible reasons for clamped fins include: Poor Water Quality: High levels of ammonia, nitrite, or nitrate, as well as improper pH or temperature, can cause significant stress. Disease or Infection: Issues like fin rot, parasites, or bacterial infections may cause discomfort, leading the fish to clamp its fins. Stress: Factors like overcrowding, bullying by other fish, or sudden environmental changes can induce stress-related behaviours. Inadequate Diet: Nutritional deficiencies can weaken fish, affecting their overall health and appearance.

While the penguins may be unable to survive in the wild, as mentioned, the other animals deserve much better...