What are the opening hours?

Monday 9:30am - 5:30pm Tuesday 9:30am - 5:30pm Wednesday 9:30am - 5:30pm Thursday 9:30am - 5:30pm Friday 9:30am - 5:30pm Saturday 9:30am - 5:30pm Sunday 9:30am - 5:30pm

Auckland Zoo

Home
New Zealand
Auckland
Auckland Zoo

Auckland Zoo is a not-for-profit organisation focused on conserving wildlife and wild places.

At the heart of all Auckland Zoo's work and activities is its mission: "to bring people together to build a future for wildlife”. Auckland Zoo plays a vitally important role in breeding, research and recovery programmes for threatened wildlife. In fact, a portion of your ticket goes towards the Auckland Zoo Conservation Fund to support both local and international field-based projects.

22/01/2025

We’re open till 8pm tonight – are you visiting?

It’s the perfect opportunity to relax after work with friends, whānau, or a fun date night.

We have exclusive keeper talks only available during Zoo Lates, including the siamang/orangutan and cotton-top tamarin talks. With over 12 keeper talks on offer, there’s something for everyone to enjoy and learn!

Zoo Lates are on every Thursday from 4pm - 8pm till 6 March (excluding 6 February, Waitangi Day). Last admissions are at 7pm. Zoo annual members and infants (0-3 years old) are free to enter!

22/01/2025

We need your help to decide our overall prize winner for 2024!

Congratulations to the talented photographers whose incredible snaps made it to the top 12.

Vote for your favourite month from the 12 individual photos and write it in the comments below eg: December. Tag your friends so they can vote too!

The grand prize for the 2024 Auckland Zoo Snaps, as supported by Nikon New Zealand is an amazing photography prize pack which includes a mirrorless camera.

Thank you to everyone who entered in 2024 and shared their amazing photos with us. Our monthly photography competition continues for 2025 - www.aucklandzoo.co.nz/zoosnaps.

T&C’s: Only one vote will be counted per social media account. Votes must be cast prior to 5pm Wednesday 29 January. Votes must be submitted on this post or the Zoo’s Instagram post, and not elsewhere.

21/01/2025

Did you know emus enjoy water?

Elvis and Ellie-May are making the most of their new pool in our revamped Australian Bush Track! Emus are surprising strong swimmers and enjoy water not just to cool off but also to keep their feathers clean and free of dirt. On warmer days, they even love a refreshing hose-down from our keepers—a fun way to stay relaxed and beat the heat.

Our animal experiences team who care for the emu, provide food for them throughout the day. The emu diet consists of browse, grass and a variety of fruits and veggies and what you can see being fed in the bucket is a specialist emu pellet. These nutritional pellets are packed with grains, various plant proteins, minerals, vitamins and more. This is placed in a feeder inside their habitat for them to have access to all day.

Occasionally, they’ll snack directly from the bucket, which helps to build trust with the keepers. These positive interactions also allow the team to perform visual checks, ensuring Elvis and Ellie-May stay healthy.

Be sure to visit them this week in their upgraded habitat!

19/01/2025

Cobble skinks beat the odds and fly home!

We’re excited to share that 148 precious endemic cobble skinks - cared for and bred at the Zoo since 2016, have just been returned to the wild!

The Zoo’s ectotherm specialists Richard, Julie and Sonja joined our Department of Conservation colleagues and representatives of Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu to safely release them to the wild – on the South Island’s West Coast.

Back in 2016, 35 of these skinks were part of an emergency rescue salvage by DOC after their only known habitat was severely impacted by coastal erosion. They were believed to be in severe decline and occupying less than one hectare of coastline habitat and based on this information were classified as Nationally Critical. Six more animals were transferred to us in 2022. Thanks to the great mahi of our ectotherm keepers, they successfully bred.

These skinks live in a unique environment consisting of beach stones or “cobbles”. In great news, through surveys, DOC has since discovered new populations of these skinks near their original habitat.

“Now we know they’re not quite as close to the precipice of extinction we have the luxury of returning the Zoo population to the wild to reintroduce valuable genetics. We’ll continue to work with our partners to plan for long-term security for this species living so precariously close to the edge,” says Richard, our head of animal care & conservation.

19/01/2025

Are you bringing your loved one to the Zoo this Valentine’s?

We have a special Late just for Valentine’s Day – with the Zoo open from 4-8pm. This fun-filled adults only evening will feature keeper talks delving into the weird and wonderful world of animal courtship display.

Get your tickets here - www.aucklandzoo.co.nz/valentines-late.

If you purchase your Valentine's Late ticket before 4pm on Thursday 13 February 2025, you will go in the draw to win an extra special date night for two, valued at over $250! Attendance is free for Zoo annual pass holders (18+).

17/01/2025

Did you know that ring-tailed lemurs have two tongues? It's not as strange as it might sound!

Join primate keeper Lindi as she explains the fascinating reason behind this unique feature. The second tongue, known as the sublingual or ‘under-tongue’, is a small, white, triangular structure located beneath their pink tongue.

Its primary function? Helping lemurs clean their specialised comb-like teeth at the front of their lower jaw which is used for grooming.

Spotting their under-tongue is tricky, but if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse while viewing the female troop as they sunbathe in their habitat.

16/01/2025

Congratulations to our December winner, Angus!

Angus is the final winner to enter our 2024 Zoo Snaps competition, capturing this stunning photo of a Tasmanian devil. Angus shared, "The Tasmanian devils were inside their den, but as I turned to walk away, one emerged and glanced toward me briefly. I managed to snap the shot just before she moved on.”

Stay tuned! Next week, we’ll showcase the photos from each of our 12 monthly winners and invite you to vote for your favourite! The most voted for photo will win our overall photography prize pack which includes a Nikon mirrorless camera.

Our 2025 photography competition starts this month - so keep your entries coming in! Our monthly photography competition is kindly supported by Nikon New Zealand.

14/01/2025

Are you coming to our first Zoo Lates of the summer?!

Tomorrow evening (Thursday 16) we’re open till 8pm*! Bring your whānau and friends, pack a picnic or enjoy a meal from our cafes. Fancy something different? Swing by our Old Elephant House restaurant for tapas (no bookings required) – served fresh every Thursday night.

Connect with wildlife and nature with a wander through our beautiful grounds with engaging keeper talks along the way.

*Thursday evenings (4pm - 8pm*) from 16 January to 6 March (excluding 6 February, Waitangi Day).Last admissions are at 7pm. Zoo annual members and infants (0-3 years old) are free to enter.

14/01/2025

Conservationists at Fundesgua -Fundación para las Especies Amenazadas de Guatemala- found a creative way to protect the Campbell’s alligator lizard with a rescue and reintroduction programme.

Females from highly isolated trees are temporarily relocated to safe environments to give birth, and their neonates are later released into high quality habitat to boost genetic diversity and population health.

In 2024 alone, 25 neonates were successfully reintroduced, and since the programme began, 375 offspring have been released into the wild, helping to ensure a brighter future for this critically endangered species!

Local families are invited to participate in releasing neonates, these moments help debunk myths about these lizards while building pride and responsibility for its conservation.

The charming neonates never fail to captivate participants, especially children, reshaping perceptions of the species and fostering a deeper connection with this incredible species.

Together, we’re not only restoring habitat but also restoring hope for the future of the Campbell’s alligator lizard!

- Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden

14/01/2025

Conservationists at Fundesgua -Fundación para las Especies Amenazadas de Guatemala- have found a creative way to protect the Campbell’s alligator lizard with a rescue and reintroduction programme.

Females from highly isolated trees are temporarily relocated to safe environments to give birth, and their neonates are later released into high quality habitat to boost genetic diversity and population health.

In 2024 alone, 25 neonates were successfully reintroduced, and since the programme began, 375 offspring have been released into the wild, helping to ensure a brighter future for this critically endangered species!

Local families are invited to participate in releasing neonates, these moments help debunk myths about these lizards while building pride and responsibility for its conservation. The charming neonates never fail to captivate participants, especially children, reshaping perceptions of the species and fostering a deeper connection with this incredible species.

Together, we’re not only restoring habitat but also restoring hope for the future of the Campbell’s alligator lizard!

- Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden

14/01/2025

We have embarked on an exciting new phase of habitat restoration, focusing on the unique canopy microhabitat that Campbell’s alligator lizard relies on to survive.

We identified the key plant species that form this incredible canopy ecosystem. These findings not only deepened our understanding of the intricate roles these plants play but also gave us a blueprint to bring this vital part of the forest back to life.

Now, we’re putting this knowledge into action with innovative techniques. By transplanting adult epiphytes onto young trees, we’re speeding up the recovery of these canopy habitats. To ensure the long-term success of this effort, we’ve also built a greenhouse to propagate these critical plants.

Restoring the canopy is more than just planting trees; it’s about recreating the complex ecosystems above them. These efforts are breaking new ground in conservation and giving this critically endangered lizard a better chance at survival.

- Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden

14/01/2025

We’ve expanded the available habitat for Campbell’s alligator lizard by an impressive 192 hectares, planting over 162,000 native trees!

While these areas are still maturing, their eventual development will significantly enhance the species’ remaining habitat, demonstrating the transformative impact of restoration.

These restored areas are not just creating new habitat, they’re connecting fragmented patches of forest. Once fully matured, these restored areas will represent approximately one-third of the species’ remaining habitat, providing a crucial lifeline for its long-term survival.

This ambitious restoration project was made possible through partnerships with 12 communities, 21 private farms, and over 250 families. Together, we’ve created a mosaic of biological corridors and habitat patches, reclaiming critical space for the conservation of this species.

- Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden

13/01/2025

Studying a secretive lizard that lives in hard-to-reach places is no easy task!

Campbell’s alligator lizard (Abronia campbelli) lives high up in the canopy of the forest, and because of this, poses significant challenges for researchers. For years, little was known about the species besides that it was highly endangered until our dedicated research efforts began to uncover its secrets.

Our first step was to gather essential scientific information about A. campbelli, including its conservation status, habitat, behavior, reproduction, home range, and population dynamics. This foundational knowledge, combined with ongoing research that delves deeper into the intricacies of this remarkable species, serves as the backbone of our conservation strategies.

By understanding the species at a scientific level, we’re better equipped to develop and implement effective strategies to ensure its survival and protect its habitat.

Follow our takeover today to learn about the strategies we’re implementing, based on our growing knowledge!

- Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden

13/01/2025

The critically endangered lizard is found exclusively in a small mountainous pocket of Guatemala.

A small, elusive, arboreal species, the Campbell’s alligator lizard depends on the pine-oak forests of the region, which are rapidly shrinking. Once covering 10,000 hectares, its habitat has been reduced to just 300 hectares—an alarming 3% of its original range.

While habitat loss remains the primary threat, it’s not the only one. For decades, this species was misunderstood and feared. Local myths falsely claimed it was venomous, with deadly powers attributed to its bite, tail, and even its shadow! These misconceptions led to widespread extermination. Thankfully, dedicated awareness campaigns have dispelled these harmful beliefs, significantly reducing such practices.

The species has also been targeted by the illegal wildlife trade. Collaboration with local communities and authorities has been instrumental in curbing this threat, but ongoing efforts are essential to secure the species’ future.

Stay tuned to discover how your Auckland Zoo visits are helping us at Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden, Fundesgua -Fundación para las Especies Amenazadas de Guatemala- and local communities to protect this remarkable lizard and its fragile habitat.

- Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden

13/01/2025

This our conservation partners at the Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden are taking over our social channels to spotlight the conservation efforts your visits help bring to life!

The Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden works in close partnership with Fundesgua -Fundación para las Especies Amenazadas de Guatemala- who are at the forefront of reptile conservation, working to protect and restore Guatemala’s extraordinary biodiversity. Their mission is to safeguard the country’s most overlooked and endangered species and ecosystems, ensuring their survival for generations to come.

Through scientific research and community-driven actions, this collaboration addresses critical gaps in conservation, focusing on Guatemala’s remarkable reptiles—species that make up 20% of the country’s terrestrial vertebrate diversity. Among them is the critically endangered Campbell’s alligator lizard (Abronia campbelli)—a rare jewel hidden in a single mountainous region of Guatemala.

Stay tuned to learn more about this vital conservation work and how your support makes a difference!

13/01/2025

Today, we’re celebrating an important milestone—Enzi’s first birthday! 🦒

Over the past year, Enzi has grown into a strong and healthy young giraffe. Born at 65kgs, she now weighs an impressive 443kgs and stands about 11–12 feet tall. Her development is right on track for a one-year-old giraffe.

Enzi has a calm yet curious nature, she is happy to interact with our ungulates keepers and fits right in with the whole tower of giraffe.

Enzi has also formed a special bond with the zebra herd, especially with Muroki, the male zebra. You will often see them relaxing together side by side, or interacting playfully with one another.

Visit our 3.15pm giraffe keeper talk each day of the week to learn more about her!

📷 -ungulates keeper Jess

10/01/2025

Watch Sumatran tiger Ramah showcase his incredible climbing skills!

Our carnivore keepers will strategically place meat at different points within the tigers’ habitat, so they can use their senses to smell and locate their meal. In this instance, the keepers have placed venison high up in this feeding tree – with Ramah climbing effortlessly to reach it.

Tree climbs like these provide a big cat like Ramah with a fantastic workout, ensuring he stays physically and mentally stimulated.

These engaging sessions happen at different times throughout the day and week, so be sure to keep a lookout to see Ramah in action!

09/01/2025

Rhino calf update!

At just 27 days old, this male calf is thriving and growing stronger every day. Recently he met his two older sisters, four-year-old Nyah and two-year-old Amali, for the first time. This meeting was full of curiosity and playful bonding – just as our keepers had hoped – and next week he’ll be introduced to his father Zambezi.

This morning marked an exciting milestone as he stepped into the outdoor habitat for the first time! Initially cautious under the watchful eye of his mother Jamila, he gradually grew more confident. Before long, he fully embraced this new space – enjoying his first mud wallow, and lots of zoomies.

For now, his time outdoors will be limited to a few hours each day without a fixed schedule, allowing him to explore at his own pace. As his confidence grows, he’ll gradually meet other species in the habitat, including the nyala and waterbuck, and eventually, he’ll work up to spending full days outdoors.

Bring your whānau to visit him this weekend!

Address

99 Motions Road
Auckland
1022

Opening Hours

Monday	9:30am - 5:30pm
Tuesday	9:30am - 5:30pm
Wednesday	9:30am - 5:30pm
Thursday	9:30am - 5:30pm
Friday	9:30am - 5:30pm
Saturday	9:30am - 5:30pm
Sunday	9:30am - 5:30pm

Telephone

+6493603805

Website

http://www.aucklandzoo.co.nz/

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Auckland Zoo posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Business

Send a message to Auckland Zoo:

Videos

Valentine's Late 2025

Are you bringing your loved one to the Zoo this Valentine’s? We have a special Late just for Valentine’s Day – with the Zoo open from 4-8pm. This fun-filled adults only evening will feature keeper talks delving into the weird and wonderful world of animal courtship display. Get your tickets here - www.aucklandzoo.co.nz/valentines-late. If you purchase your Valentine's Late ticket before 4pm on Thursday 13 February 2025, you will go in the draw to win an extra special date night for two, valued at over $250! Attendance is free for Zoo annual pass holders (18+).

Reintroducing juvenile lizards into safe spaces!

Conservationists at Fundesgua -Fundación para las Especies Amenazadas de Guatemala- have found a creative way to protect the Campbell’s alligator lizard with a rescue and reintroduction programme. Females from highly isolated trees are temporarily relocated to safe environments to give birth, and their neonates are later released into high quality habitat to boost genetic diversity and population health. In 2024 alone, 25 neonates were successfully reintroduced, and since the programme began, 375 offspring have been released into the wild, helping to ensure a brighter future for this critically endangered species! Local families are invited to participate in releasing neonates, these moments help debunk myths about these lizards while building pride and responsibility for its conservation. The charming neonates never fail to captivate participants, especially children, reshaping perceptions of the species and fostering a deeper connection with this incredible species. Together, we’re not only restoring habitat but also restoring hope for the future of the Campbell’s alligator lizard! #TakeoverTuesday - Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden

Zoo Lates is back for 2025!

Enjoy long nights at the Zoo this summer! Our popular ‘Zoo Lates’ are back again this year. Bring your favourite primates to the Zoo on Thursday evenings (4pm - 8pm*) from 16 January to 6 March (excluding 6 February, Waitangi Day). We have special keeper talks on all night, see the schedule online or on the back of our Zoo Map. Avoid the queues by getting your tickets today - www.aucklandzoo.co.nz/zoo-lates. *Last admissions are at 7pm. Zoo annual members and infants (0-3 years old) are free to enter.

And that's a wrap...2024!

Ngā mihi o te tau hou! It’s almost 2025 - a perfect time to share highlights from ‘the year that was’ and say a sincere thank you for all your support. We’ve achieved a lot for wildlife this year and none of this would be possible without you. We connected you and your whānau with a myriad of fascinating species at the Zoo, meaningfully contributed both staff expertise and funding to wildlife conservation in Aotearoa and around the world, and launched some exciting initiatives designed to inspire generations of conservationists. This year saw some exciting Zoo births such as tiger cub Cahya, giraffe calf Enzi and Jamila’s newly born rhinoceros calf. We welcomed animals like Tasmanian devils Wiri and Wayana and meerkat Adia to the Zoo, and we successfully relocated beloved Burma to her amazing new home at Monarto Safari Park. You can read more about our 2024 highlights here - www.aucklandzoo.co.nz/news/and-thats-a-wrap-2024.

Welcoming Bornean orangutan Daya to the troop!

How time flies! It’s been over a year since Daya joined our orangutan whānau at Auckland Zoo. In this video, we join primate keeper Grace as we follow Bornean orangutan Daya’s journey from Ouwehands Zoo in the Netherlands and how she has settled into life here in Auckland (including a special look into her positive reinforcement training sessions!). We’re pleased to report that Daya has gone from strength to strength, building bonds with our keepers and orangutans Charlie, Melur and two-year-old Bahmi.

Auckland Zoo

22/01/2025

22/01/2025

21/01/2025

19/01/2025

19/01/2025

17/01/2025

16/01/2025

14/01/2025

14/01/2025

14/01/2025

14/01/2025

14/01/2025

13/01/2025

13/01/2025

13/01/2025

13/01/2025

10/01/2025

09/01/2025

Address

Opening Hours

Telephone

Website

Alerts

Contact The Business

Videos

Valentine's Late 2025

Reintroducing juvenile lizards into safe spaces!

Zoo Lates is back for 2025!

And that's a wrap...2024!

Welcoming Bornean orangutan Daya to the troop!

Shortcuts

Share

Category