Has it been a hot minute since you've been to the zoo? Well why not go this summer, it is the perfect time to visit the animals. Whether it be a family trip, a catch-up with friends or a solo weekend outing, Auckland Zoo is the destination for you. Open 9:30-5:30 every day except Christmas day, there is no reason not to go.
The zoo is easily accessible to anyone of any ability with pushchairs and mobility scooters to hire and wheelchairs free to use.
Auckland Zoo is Aotearoa's largest wildlife park and is home to 135 species and more than 1,400 animals, so they are bound to have your favourite! They have it all from mammals to birds to reptiles.
The zoo is split into continents, making it interesting to navigate:
Australia Bush track: home to our neighbours' peculiar animals including the Red Neck Wallaby, the Tasmanian Devil and the Huntsman spider, which is not for the faint hearted.
**Editors favourite**
While you're here have a chat with Captain the Sulfur-crested Cockatoo. This cheeky fella loves to have a yarn with zoo goers with his top phrase being “Hello Captain”.
South America Rainforest track: take a trip to the forest and visit the uniquely diverse wildlife that South America has to offer. From tree hopping Spider monkeys to giant Galápagos tortoises, this track will not disappoint. Have a go at spotting the American alligators on your route.
Te Wao Nui (Aotearoa New Zealand): home to our very own native species. The zoo holds 60 native animals and more than 100 native New Zealand plant species. This track has its own unique areas: The coast (Takutai), the islands (Moutere Rāhui), the night (Te Pō), the wetlands (Nga Repo), the forest (Te Wao Nui a Tāne) and the high country (Whenua Waotu).
**Editors favourite**
While you’re here in Te Wao Nui, a visit to the Brown Kiwis is a must do. This unique native Aotearoa bird lives in its starry nighttime enclosure. So adjust your eyes to the darkness and spot the kiwi.
South East Asia Jungle track: this track is the newest track to the zoo, with all areas yet to open. This track allows visitors to have an up close experience with the animals. Home to the Orangutans and the Siamangs High Canopy habitat. With the ability to walk through the jungle with Primates swinging high above you, this track is definitely one of the coolest experiences in the park.
Coming soon to this track:
The lake and wetlands | The Swamp Forest housing Sunda Gharial crocodiles, tortoises, turtles and more | The Lowlands inhabit the Sumatran tigers, the Asian small-clawed otters and more.
Africa Safari track: this track makes you feel like you are in the heart of the African Savannah. Say hello to the giraffes, zebras and ostriches on this track while getting a cheeky selfie with the meerkats.
What if I miss an animal on my zoo adventure? Check out Auckland Zoos webcams here
Why not take a pit stop on the way? The zoo has plenty of eateries and cool spots to stop off at on your day:
Te Puna: self serve style eatery located by the South East Asia Track, enjoy some hot chips while checking out the orangutans.
Wētāpunga Café: grab a coffee to walk around with, this cafe is located at the entrance of the zoo.
The Watering Hole: grab an ice cream and have a sneaky selfie with the flamingos, this cool spot is located near the African Safari track.
The Old Elephant House: why not dine in style? This 1922 zoo building come bistro is the perfect spot for a zoo lunch date or a boozy brunch with friends. Located near the South American Rainforest track.
The Lookout: perfect stop for a snack, cold drink and refuel, located in Te Wao Nui (Aotearoa track).
Picnic: pack a picnic and enjoy the sun! The zoo has plenty of benches and picnic areas to enjoy a classic family picnic lunch.
To end your trip, why not stop at the gift store? Here you can end the day by getting a fluffy toy of your favourite zoo animal, or even surprise your loved one.
For more details, upcoming events and information on Auckland Zoo go to https://www.aucklandzoo.co.nz/
Happy summer guys
- Jessie
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