At home with the animals

Pamela Wade

Constantly reinventing itself, driven by dedicated staff and volunteers, Auckland Zoo has come a long way since it opened in 1922. It plays an important role in education, conservation and research.

A good example of that is hatching kiwi chicks from eggs collected in the wild for eventual return to their origins. Or treating sick and injured rescued wildlife.

A non-profit organisation, all entrance fees are used to fund the zoo, and support its Wild Work projects.

Its enclosures are impressively natural and as close as possible to their choice in the wild.

In savannah and jungle, rainforest and native bush, more than 1400 animals and 135 species look comfortably at home.

Why go?

Because when did you ever see a tiger get a root canal? Visitors can access the vet hospital’s viewing area to watch what is happening. Gaze at orangutans 20 metres above your head, swinging casually along ropes in their new high-canopy habitat, watch white rhinos grazing, otters playing in their stream, and crocodiles wallowing. Marvel at giant we¯ta¯, part of an impressive conservation project, coo over cute red pandas, admire brilliantly coloured macaws, and study snakes and frogs.

Insider tip

The zoo relies on volunteers to support staff. If you want to get involved, and can commit to regular attendance, get in touch to help as a visitor assistant, aid to the keepers, or even as a guide.

On the way/nearby

The zoo is near the Museum of Transport and Technology (Motat), accessible by a free ride on a personable old tram, though the museum’s separate M2 aviation site is closed for development. Motat has a wide range of exhibits – many of them hands-on, events, and special exhibitions. Or go for a stroll around Western Springs Lakeside Park.

How much?

Adults $24, children $13 (under 15), seniors/ students $19, with family and annual passes also available. Open 9.30am to 5.30pm every day. Bookings are essential.

Best time to go

Go soon if you want to see elephants Burma and Anjalee, as they will be leaving for Australian zoos this year.

Check the website for new arrival announcements, or the latest openings. The ambitious $60 million South East Asia Jungle Track is already partly accessible. Plan ahead to see the baby orangutan due late summer. Visit aucklandzoo.co.nz.