Auckland’s Aquarium is located on the scenic waterfront road of Tamika Drive just outside of downtown about halfway to Mission Bay.  There is a small parking lot attached to the entrance and ample road parking all around on the main road.  The aquarium entrance is inside a small building which takes you underground where the aquarium is located.  There is a lift (elevator) and long ramp walkway to the ticket counter, which can be seen in our video above. 

The well thought out design takes you through different display areas starting with the large Penguin room, which includes a below water viewing area. This leads to an interactive activities area for kids to draw and explore. Next is a café with playground area before the start of the large circle tunnel with moving walkway. Go in circles as long as you like or proceed to the final area before reaching the gift shop.

While I have visited larger aquariums, we did spend at least 3 hours here and could have easily stayed longer. You can buy tickets online to save 10% off the ticket price (must book 24 hours in advance) or check out  deals on GrabOne, which has tickets discounted up to 50% off at times.

​This is an easy half day trip outside of downtown Auckland and there is a great walking path next to the water to enjoy a waterfront stroll if the weather is nice. There is a very long wharf just across the street as well, which is a good point of reference when looking for the aquarium.  Here is the location on google maps. 

They have a giant squid on display as well (not as big as the one at the national museum of New Zealand in Wellington,  Te Papa) but still impressive.  I would say it's a great way to spend 1/2 a day in Auckland, especially if you have kids or the weather isn't great outside.