Napier National Aquarium in Napier, New Zealand is considering a massive expansion. Part of the plan could include a glass elevator that takes visitors below the waterline to observe and explore the sea in a replicated environment. The plan calls for the creation of an 80-foot deep controlled underwater coastline habitat, similar to those surrounding the country.

Glass elevator only part of aquarium’s glass plans

The glass elevator is still in the drawing stages, but it would be part of a broad expansion that would give the aquarium the largest, deepest research-display tanks in the world. The Napier City Council has allocated $50,000 to a feasibility study for the project. The national aquarium is supported by the New Zealand government, but the City of Napier is advancing the expansion proposal.

In addition to the glass elevator, the plan calls for glass-covered walkways that waves can wash over, and tours in a glass bottomed boat. The goal is to create a world-class research environment, while maintaining a highly visible and desirable visitor attraction. Some of the proposal’s supporters believe that the upgrades could elevate the profile of the National Aquarium to attract world-renowned oceanographic researchers.

The aquarium’s research programs are focused on conservation, and that will not change if the upgrades are adopted and funded. The upgrade to the National Aquarium would be enabled by massive improvements planned for roads and other local infrastructure.

The ability to see the workings of the habitat through glass is essential to the Aquarium’s visitor education plans, and to the research goals for the facility. Once the feasibility study has been completed, officials will better know the price tag for their underwater vision.
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Photo Credit: Shazwan, via Flickr.com