Hide & Seek This Summer!

Take a journey this summer through the spectacular environments of Aotearoa, from ancient native forest, wetlands, coastal bays, and more. As you journey your way through these natural worlds, can you discover and seek out who calls them home?

Join the National Aquarium as we proudly bring you 'Hide and Seek,' a collaboration with author and illustrator Ned Barraud and publishers Potton & Burton. Utilising Ned's captivating illustrations, unearth all the taonga (treasured) creatures hidden inside the aquarium and accept the challenge to explore Napier and search for species that have been introduced to New Zealand.  Don't forget to book a 'Rocky Shore Explore' experience or a Nature Journal session with our team.

Buy general admission tickets

At Our Place

Become an explorer within the walls of our aquarium! Discover eight enchanting native species, beautifully illustrated by Ned Barraud, that are hidden around the aquarium. Complete the activity sheet, submit your answers, and enter the draw for a chance to win one of three fantastic prize packs.
As you explore, be on the lookout for enlarged pages from Ned's books, turning your visit into a fun seek-and-find scavenger hunt.
This activity runs 16 December - 18 February.

Buy General Admission Tickets

Learn more about Ned Barraud

Based in Wellington, Ned Barraud is an illustrator and author with a passion for bringing the wonders of Aotearoa's biodiversity to life. He has created numerous enchanting children's books including "New Zealand’s Backyard Beasts" and "Where Is It?", a wildlife hunt designed specifically for Kiwi kids. Ned's artistic and storytelling finesse have made him a beloved figure in children's literature, and his dedication to promoting awareness of our natural treasures aligns perfectly with our ‘Hide & Seek’ activities this summer. 

View NED'S TITLES published by Potton & Burton