Wellington Zoo

Established in 1906 Wellington Zoo is New Zealand’s premiere venue for animals like lions, tigers, chimpanzees, giraffes, and popular native icons such as the kiwi and tuataras. Located at 200 Daniell Street, Newtown, Wellington, the zoo attracts thousands of visitors each year and continues to expand its ‘attractions’ along with conservation and educational goals.

New Zealand’s first Zoo covers some 13 hectares and is open to the public 364 days a year, every day except Christmas Day, from 9.30am to 5pm daily, with last entry at 4.15pm. It is home to over 500 animals, comprised of over a hundred species including the Red Panda, Sumatran Tiger and Brown Kiwi.

The Zoo hosts a mid-year school holiday programme from Monday 6 July, suitable for children aged 6 to 11. Each fun and education-packed day focuses on a different animal and parents are encouraged to get involved.

In 2003 Wellington Zoo became a charitable trust where it had earlier operated under the auspices of  Wellington City Council. The Trust Board has played a pivotal role in legacy-building and evolving the Zoo’s social and environmental agenda. One of the biggest successes for the Trust Board is the Zoo Capital Programme (ZCP) – a ten year redevelopment plan for the Zoo, which got the green light from the Wellington City Council in December 2006.

Wellington Zoo is a member of the Central region Sustainable Business Network and conservation is very much a driving principle. This is demonstrated via regional and international breeding programmes and contributions to in situ and ex situ conservation projects, along with diverse research programmes.

The motto, “Reduce, reuse, recycle” is dear to staff and loyal supporters of the Wellington Zoo, and in the past 24 months well over 1,300 native tress have been planted on the grounds,  to serve as revegetation and food for animals.

This commitment to the environment and sustainability extends to the Zoo gift shop; bags come in biodegradable plastic, paper, and even reusable spun and woven form. Support local New Zealand products alongside worthy ‘Fair Trade’ merchandise from interesting locations like India Uganda (handmade jewellery), India (bags), and Guatemala (‘worry’ dolls).

Perfect for a family outing or simply a fun and educational reminder of our relationships with animals and the world, the Wellington Zoo has a rightful place as a must-see attraction.