When embarking on a journey through the picturesque landscapes and vibrant cities of New Zealand, make sure to include a stop at Wellington Zoo in your itinerary. Situated in the heart of Wellington, the capital city of New Zealand, Wellington Zoo offers an exciting and educational experience for visitors of all ages. From exotic animals to conservation initiatives, there’s something for everyone at this captivating zoological park.
What to Expect at Wellington Zoo –
1. Close Encounters with Animals
At Wellington Zoo, you can get up close and personal with a diverse range of animal species from different corners of the globe. With over 100 species and more than 500 animals, the zoo boasts an impressive collection that highlights both native New Zealand species and exotic creatures.
Some Exotic Animals that You Expect Your Close Encounter with:
Tiger
Your Encounter will be with one Tiger – through a gate, well away from other visitors. You’ll see how our keepers care for these amazing big cats… get an up-close view of their striking fur, deadly paws, and mesmerizing eyes – and make a friend by feeding them some of their daily diets!
Lemur
The chance to sink your fingers into the softest fur at Wellington Zoo makes our Lemur Close Encounter special. Our two male Black and White Ruffed Lemurs will come down to your seat in their habitat and pluck grapes out of your hand while you get to feel their stunning black and white coats.
Capybara
The Capybara is the world’s largest rodent and they share similar features with rats, mice and guinea pigs, such as their ever-growing front teeth. One of their notable features is their partially webbed feet making the Capybara excellent swimmers!
Giraffe
You think that a Giraffe has a long neck? Wait until you see its tongue extending out of its mouth all the way to get a tasty treat! Getting up close to one of our Giraffes at Wellington Zoo at a Close Encounter means getting a real feel for just how huge these majestic animals are and what it takes to care for them.
Meerkat
Meerkats are no shy wall flowers and they’ll be happy to welcome you to their home while they get fed some special treats.
Meerkats, scientifically known as Suricata suricatta, are small carnivores belonging to the mongoose family.
2. Zoo Sleepovers
Bring your group for a magical Zoo Sleepover and experience behind-the-scenes action at Wellington Zoo after regular hours. During your Zoo Sleepover, explore the Zoo grounds after other visitors have left. Witness the behind-the-scenes activities and entice one of our incredible animals with a nighttime treat.
Following all the excitement, you’ll have the chance to sleep alongside your friends. You might find yourself cozying up at the Archibald Centre with a view of Monkey Island or dozing off in our Living Room, in close proximity to some adorable creatures.
3. Family-Friendly Fun
Wellington Zoo is a fantastic destination for families, ensuring that children have a memorable and enriching experience. The KidZone area offers a variety of activities, including a playground, a farmyard, and a special habitat designed for young visitors to explore and learn about animals in an interactive and engaging way.
Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a family seeking a fun day out, or someone eager to learn about conservation efforts, Wellington Zoo is a destination that offers it all. As you journey through New Zealand, don’t miss the opportunity to connect with incredible animals, gain insights into conservation, and create lasting memories at this exceptional zoological park.