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A NZ$5.5 million dollar investment will see Kelly Tarlton's (one of New Zealand's favourite attractions) revitalised, rejuvenated and redeveloped into a truly world class attraction.

The investment comes as part of the commitment from Merlin Entertainments Group Ltd when they acquired Kelly Tarlton's in 2011.

Kelly Tarlton's General Manager James Thomas explains "this is a very exciting move for Kelly Tarlton's.

"The renovations will put our local attraction on the map and ensure that that we offer New Zealanders and our international visitors a truly world class experience when we relaunch as Kelly Tarlton's SEA LIFE Aquarium.

"SEA LIFE is Merlin's world's leading aquarium brand and is recognised for its work in breeding, conservation and campaigning. Our marine colleagues in the Group have worked closely with us to develop these exciting changes."

The redesign includes extensive additions to theming and ambience, a new layout and exhibit structure, extension of audio visual displays and an interactive trail enabling junior explorers to recreate the life and works of Kelly Tarlton himself. Throughout the aquarium there will also be a greater emphasis placed on the journey around New Zealand and Antarctic waters, visitor interaction and the role Kelly Tarlton's plays in sea life conservation.

Kelly Tarlton's underground Antarctic penguin enclosure, already a world first, will undergo a full transformation to provide customers with a more personal encounter with the penguins, getting them closer to the penguins than ever before.

Thomas adds "we're always looking to improve the animal's habitats as well as the guest experience.

"Our penguins are one of the many reasons our guests visits us and are always amazed with our collection. Our new experience will ensure guests can spend as much time as they like with the penguins and get to know their individual personalities and traits."

The aquarium will remain open to the public, with renovations taking place over five months in isolation to ensure minimum disruptions to the animals and visitors.

Kelly Tarlton's original aquarium was the vision of Kiwi adventurer, diver, explorer and inventor Kelly Tarlton. Upon completion of these renovations the attraction will have 10 themed zones, over 30 live animal displays and 80 different species, with three million litres of water and producing four tonnes of snow daily.

For more information go to www.kellytarltons.co.nz

18th February 2012 - MERLIN CONFIRMS LIVING AND LEISURE AUSTRALIA TAKEOVER

14th September 2011 - KELLY TARLTON’S LAUNCHES SEAHORSE KINGDOM

10th March 2011 - MERLIN COMPLETES SYDNEY ATTRACTIONS GROUP PURCHASE

9th May 2008 - VILLAGE BUYS KELLY TARLTON’S

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