Blue Reef Aquarium Hastings reopens

New social distancing measures have been put in place SUS-200715-144329001

The attraction in Rock-a-Nore closed on March 22 just before lockdown.

It reopened on Saturday, July 4, the day major lockdown restrictions were eased.

Lara Bolch, deputy general manager at Blue Reef Aquarium Hastings, said: “We are delighted with how well the weekend here went, as to be expected we were all apprehensive as to how things would go but as soon as we saw how the first visitors reacted, we knew all our hard work was appreciated.

“I actually felt incredibly excited when we welcomed the first few visitors, we’re all just thrilled to be open once again.”

The site is busy welcoming everyone safely back, from locals and families to annual pass holders.

Visitors will observe enhanced cleaning schedules, hand sanitising stations, signage throughout the aquarium, blue social distancing sharks on the floor and a one-way system through the aquarium.

The aquarium is running at a reduced capacity but there is no need to pre-book tickets before visiting.

Lauren Winstanley, aquarist at Blue Reef Aquarium, said: “The fish have really missed seeing visitors, Baxter our Giant Pacific Octopus has been excitingly watching on as visitors admire him. Once again they can enjoy having visitors around.”

Blue Reef Aquarium Hastings is open to the public everyday 10am to 5.30pm with last entry at 5pm.

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