SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's marks 40 years with a call for memories

On the 25th January 2025, SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium will celebrate its 40th anniversary and to commemorate four decades of marine magic and community connection, the aquarium is reaching out to the public to help capture the essence of their journey with stories and photographs from the past 40 years.

Since opening in 1985, SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s has been more than just an aquarium—it’s been a place where families bond, children fall in love with the ocean, and the wonders of the marine world come to life. Pioneered by the visionary Kelly Tarlton, whose innovative ideas helped bring this iconic attraction to life, SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s has become a beloved part of Auckland’s landscape.

To honour this rich history, the team is asking for cherished photos, stories, and memories that have become part of Auckland’s history over the past 40 years.

Dan Henderson, General Manager, SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s, said, “As we reflect on our history, we believe the best way to honour it is by sharing the stories of those who have journeyed with us—from the first guests who walked the tunnels with Kelly Tarlton himself, to families visiting today.

“This is about more than nostalgia—it’s about celebrating the deep connections forged over the years. It’s about grandparents bringing their grandchildren to the same place they visited decades ago, creating a legacy of shared experiences. It’s about locals who have made SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s a part of their lives and international visitors captivated by the magic of our underwater world.”

SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s has touched so many lives and guests can help commemorate this monumental milestone by sharing their memories to help tell the true story of this beloved Auckland attraction.

Photos and stories can be emailed to memories1985@kellytarltons.co.nz with contributions to be featured throughout the year as part of the 40th-anniversary celebrations, inspiring conversations, rekindling memories, and highlighting the incredible bond between SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s and the community it has served for four decades.