The Science of Animal Care - The High Canopy Auckland Zoo 2026-09-21 | The Science of Animal Care - The High Canopy
Flamingo chicks receive a health check! Auckland Zoo 2024-04-26 | It’s International Flamingo Day and we’ve got an update for you on the Zoo’s flamingo chicks!Recently bird keepers Sarah and Letitia performed quick health checks on each chick, to ensure they’re looking healthy and developing well. This is part of the science of care we provide all of the animals at the Zoo as part of the five domains of animal welfare model. The Flamingo Specialist Group created this day to raise awareness for flamingo globally. The greater flamingo we have at Auckland Zoo have a conservation threat status of ‘least concern’ but four of the world’s six flamingo species are currently threatened. 26 April was chosen as the celebration date as it is the birthday of John James Audubon – an American researcher who promoted the flamingo in his iconic artwork and publications. Come and visit the flamboyance this weekend!
Were celebrating harakeke this Matariki! Auckland Zoo 2024-04-07 | The story of harakeke was told by Māori to their tamariki to ensure that all generations would be kaitiaki and conserve this precious resource.As our Kaupapa Māori Advisor Lyndelle explains, this meant that the harakeke would not be over-harvested and that there would always be new shoots for the coming year. Matariki embraces the spirit of togetherness - it is about being present and creating memories with whānau, remembering those who have passed, sharing good food and aspirations for the year to come. Celebrate with us these school holidays!
Tiger cub Cahya receives a health check! Auckland Zoo 2024-03-22 | Sumatran tiger cub Cahya recently hit a critical milestone! When she turned 8-weeks-old Cahya received her first vaccination and micro-chip, as well as a quick health check from our veterinary team. Her next vaccination takes place at 12 weeks which helps to protect her from feline diseases (just like domestic cats!). This is made possible through the amazing relationship our carnivore keepers have built with Zayana, and enables them to health check Cahya while mum is in the habitat enjoying breakfast. Once the quick health check was complete, Cahya enjoyed some tasty pet milk which helps to build a relationship with our team. While many of you have been lucky to spot Cahya, it is under the complete discretion of her mum Zayana as to where she might be each day. We’ll keep you updated as she progresses.
Giant kōkopu - our pick for Fish of the Year! Auckland Zoo 2024-03-19 | This endemic species takes its scientific name from the stars! Do you know why? Ectotherm keeper Seth takes us into Te Pō / The Night habitat as he feeds the Zoo’s giant kōkopu and tells us more about this species – which, like most of our freshwater fish, is only found in Aotearoa! Unfortunately, giant kōkopu are declining in the wild due to habitat loss and degradation, and competition with introduced trout. They’re also one of six species harvested as ‘whitebait’ – where fish are harvested as fry each spring - a practice which may also impact on populations locally. This is why we support the urgent restoration of New Zealand’s wetlands and advocate for well-managed sustainable fisheries for whitebait. Auckland Zoo is backing the giant kōkopu for Fish of the Year | Te Ika o Te Tau to spread awareness for these beautiful ika! Lend your support by voting here - mountainstosea.org.nz/fish. Voting closes 31 March.
Wild Heroes Season 2 is coming! Auckland Zoo 2024-02-04 | Wild Heroes returns to New Zealand screens!Season Two of the cinematically stunning and inspirational wildlife documentary series about Auckland Zoo returns to Three on Saturday 17 February. Across 10 action-packed episodes, Wild Heroes follows our highly skilled team of keepers and veterinary specialists as they care for animals within the Zoo and undertake conservation mahi with partners out in the wilds of Aotearoa New Zealand – and this season, into the Pacific and jungles of Sumatra!Auckland Zoo director Kevin Buley says: “This new season of Wild Heroes is going to give us all an opportunity to have a good sit down and bring ourselves up-to-speed with the everything that we have been doing over the last year to care for wildlife here at the Zoo and to help save species from extinction in the wild. Watch the first episode Saturday 17 at 7pm on Three or streaming on ThreeNow.
Meet Auckland Zoos giraffe calf! Auckland Zoo 2024-01-26 | On Saturday evening (13 January) Auckland Zoo’s female giraffe Kiraka gave birth to a healthy female calf who our ungulates keepers estimate stands around 6 feet (1.8m) tall and weighs approximately 60kg!We're asking our online community to help us name the female calf. Visit the Zoo's Facebook or Instagram pages to learn more!
Asian Arowana have hatched at Auckland Zoo! Auckland Zoo 2024-01-25 | These endangered Southeast Asian fish hatched in early December and are growing bigger by the week!“It’s incredibly exciting to be witnessing these fully independent and perfectly formed young thriving as they continue to eagerly devour their diet of primarily shrimp, crickets, and locusts. While currently only around 7cm long and about 10 grams each, they already resemble mini versions of the five-year-old adults and could eventually grow up to 90cm and a hefty 6.8kgs!” explains ectotherms curator Don. To our knowledge, this is the first time that Asian arowana have ever been bred in New Zealand.Read more - www.aucklandzoo.co.nz/news/auckland-zoo-successfully-breeds-rare-asian-arowana.
Sumatran tiger cubs first health check Auckland Zoo 2024-01-17 | It’s just over two weeks since Sumatran tiger Zayana’s two cubs were born, and we can now confirm that they are a male and a female! Yesterday our carnivore keepers and vets were able to carry out a well-planned and brief health check which included weighing the cubs - the male now weighs 3kg (a 2kg increase since birth!) and the female, 2.3kg - all while Zayana was inside enjoying a generous breakfast and some ‘mum time’.“For a first-time mother, Zayana is doing a really amazing job. It’s through the training we’ve done and continue to do with her, and the trust that we’ve all developed, that we’ve been able to carry out this important health check while she remained totally relaxed,” says lead senior keeper Nick.At two-weeks old, the cubs’ eyes are now fully open so they’re taking in the world around them. Nick describes their mobility as still “very wobbly”.“Everything we’re doing to support Zayana is determined by her behaviour and what she is comfortable with, and we’re super stoked with how she and the cubs are doing. In the wild a Sumatran tiger mother will keep her cubs hidden in a closed den for up to two months – to protect them from danger and to support their health and growth.“Zayana’s instinct is also to do this here in our zoo environment, which is very positive. For our visitors, this does mean that it may be another month or so before they can see the cubs and we therefore ask for everyone’s patience and understanding – the wait will be worth it!”Head to www.aucklandzoo.co.nz/news to read more!
Nature Play at Auckland Zoo Auckland Zoo 2024-01-15 | What kind of Nature Play experience would you like to see at the Zoo?Soon, we’ll be designing a new play experience for you and your tamariki to enjoy. Our aim is to move away from a traditional playground, to provide a play space where all ages and abilities connect, explore, and draw from the natural world.We have developed an online survey so we can understand what you’d like to see designed and implemented as part of this nature-focused project. As Jamine explains in our video, this could include things like streams, bridges, platforms – we encourage you to think outside of the box!Find the survey and have your say here – www.aucklandzoo.co.nz/nature-play.As a gesture of our appreciation, all completed surveys received will be entered into a draw to win a Nature Play Prize Pack!
Auckland Zoo Lates 2024 Auckland Zoo 2024-01-11 | Enjoy long summer nights as Zoo Lates are back!Bring your favourite primate to the Zoo every Thursday evening (4-8pm with last entry at 7pm) from 18 January to 7 March 2024. Adult tickets start from just $15!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.Our friends at MOTAT are offering Aviation Lates this January as well! Discounted combined tickets are available onsite and online at MOTAT or the onsite only at the Zoo if you’d like to visit both Lates.T&Cs: Zoo annual members and all infants (0-3 years old) are free. In the unlikely event of a cancellation due to weather, Zoo Lates tickets are transferable to another Late of your choice.
And thats a wrap...2023! Auckland Zoo 2023-12-28 | Ngā mihi o te tau hou! It’s almost 2024, a perfect time to share some highlights from ‘the year that was’ and say a heartfelt thank you for all your support.We’ve achieved a lot for wildlife and wild places this year – and none of this would be possible without you. We advocated for and connected our amazing communities with species at the Zoo, significantly contributed to wildlife conservation out in the field in Aotearoa New Zealand, and supported our global conservation partners in their important mahi. To top off this amazing year, we recently announced that giraffe Kiraka and Sumatran tiger Zayana are both pregnant and, all going well, are due to give birth during the summer holiday period – we’ll keep you updated!You can read more about our 2023 highlights here - www.aucklandzoo.co.nz/news/and-thats-a-wrap-2023.
Sumatran tiger Ramah enjoys a training session Auckland Zoo 2023-12-14 | How do you safely health check a Sumatran tiger?In our latest video, carnivore keepers Nick and Torey demonstrate how important positive-reinforcement training is in how we care for Sumatran tigers. Here, Torey is asking male tiger Ramah to move to different areas of our interactive training wall. Having Ramah stretch into a standing position, means our team can visually check his overall mobility and different parts of his body like his paws, belly and teeth.Carrying out regular training like this is important for noticing any subtle changes to these big cats’ behaviours. It’s entirely voluntary whether Ramah chooses to participate, but if he does, he’ll receive a tasty milk reinforcement. Every time you visit our South East Asia Jungle Track at Auckland Zoo, you’re also helping to support Sumatran tigers in the wild.
Rhinoceros calf Nyah gets a health check! Auckland Zoo 2023-11-23 | How do you safely health check a rhinoceros calf?In our latest video, ungulates keepers Georgie and Jessie demonstrate how important positive-reinforcement training is in how we care for the Southern white rhinoceros herd.Asking the rhinoceros to voluntarily walk into their indoor ‘chute’ separately – including three-year old Nyah and one-year-old Amali – means our keepers can give each individual a quick overall health check.If any further investigation is required, such as drawing bloods for our veterinary team, our keepers can safely bring the rhino into this space and can do so without the need for anaesthetic.Every time you visit the rhino at Auckland Zoo, you’re also helping to support Sumatran rhino in the wild – ka pai!
PalmOil Scan: Putting the power in your hands to save wildlife! Auckland Zoo 2023-11-12 | Today, we’re launching an exciting new app – PalmOil Scan, for the betterment of wildlife and wild places!This easy-to-use barcode scanner puts the power in your hands as consumers to easily shop for products from companies committed to sourcing Certified Sustainable Palm Oil.It’s been an international team effort with our own palm oil experts working with the World Association of Zoos & Aquariums and other palm oil experts from Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and Chester Zoo.Palm oil is the world’s most versatile, highest yielding and widely consumed vegetable oil. It is found in more than 50% of all packaged supermarket products – so it’s vitally important that it’s grown sustainably. By scanning the barcode of any product at home or when you’re out shopping, app users receive a rating of Excellent, Good, Poor or No Commitment for the parent company that produces it, reflecting the level of this company’s commitment to sourcing Certified Sustainable Palm Oil.“We recognise, that like all of us, companies are on a journey when it comes to sustainability, which is why ratings get regularly reviewed and updated to incentivise companies to keep improving. Ultimately, as consumers’ preference for CSPO grows, this grows a demand that other companies can’t ignore and that’s a win for wildlife, wild places, and people, which is the app’s goal,” explains our environmental initiatives advisor Claudine.Read more and find links to download the app here - www.aucklandzoo.co.nz/news/zoos-new-shopping-app-empowers-everyone-to-help-wildlife
Hand-rearing a barn owl chick Auckland Zoo 2023-10-27 | Come along with us on a journey as we hand-rear a barn owl chick!In this video we follow Emma and Jason from our animal experiences team as they detail the barn owl’s progress from a tiny chick to a juvenile bird!This includes explaining the incredible role that barn owls have at the Zoo in advocacy and education – for example, did you know that barn owls are classed as native to New Zealand?!When you visit the Zoo, you might see our team flying the barn owl at impromptu encounters in Te Wao Nui (in the grassy area by the entrance to The Coast). In future, barn owls will join the Hidden New Zealand encounter at our Wild Work centre so stay tuned for more info!
Keeper Seth feeds the lace monitors! Auckland Zoo 2023-10-20 | It’s #ReptileAwarenessDay and we’re celebrating some lizards from down under!Australia’s lace monitors are among the largest lizards in the world and one of the ways we care for them at the Zoo is ensuring that they’re fit and active.In this video, ectotherm keeper Seth is feeding the monitors portioned pieces of sustainably sourced possum and encouraging these adept climbers to traverse across the ground and even up the trees! As Seth explains, ectotherms are very efficient eaters and don’t need to consume their kai every day of the week. Next time you visit our Australia Bush Track see if you can spot the lace monitors (they may be camouflaged against a rock or in the trees!) and admire their unique lace-like patterns.
An enriching feed for this spider monkey troop! Auckland Zoo 2023-09-28 | Did you know that spider monkeys love hibiscus flowers and food-stuffed pinecones?Follow along as primate keeper Grace creates a nutritious and enriching meal for the black-handed spider monkey troop which is made up of five adult females and their three offspring.Grace explains what she finds so fascinating about this species and how we’re helping to conserve their cousins the brown spider monkey, in Venezuela, with the Spider Monkey Conservation Project.Your Zoo visits help this vital work – so come along and visit the troop this weekend!
Te Wiki o te Reo Māori - Kākā (pūrākau) Auckland Zoo 2023-09-14 | Do you know what happened in the ‘Battle of the Birds’ or Te Pakanga Manu?In this video, our facilities technician Tamati shares this pūrākau, special facts and whakataukī about the clever kākā in honour of Te Wiki o te Reo Māori.This is the final episode in our three-part series featuring kaimahi from across the Zoo. You can watch our previous videos in our playlist!When you visit the endemic manu at Auckland Zoo, look out for our te Reo signage that will prompt different kōrero you can have with your whānau. Karawhuia – give it a go!
Te Wiki o te Reo Māori - Kāhu or Kērangi (pūrākau) Auckland Zoo 2023-09-13 | The trickster Māui visited his tūpuna Mahuika to get fire for humankind. Do you know how the kāhu or kērangi helped with his mission?In this video, our brand experience & business development manager Jooles shares pūrākau, facts and whakataukī about this special manu in honour of Te Wiki o te Reo Māori.The Zoo has a rescued kāhu that was unable to be released to the wild due to it's injuries but is able to have a second life with our animal experience team and connect with all of you! You can learn more about it's journey to recovery in this video - youtu.be/fXnoaTFx8cg. This is the second episode in our three-part series for Te Wiki o te Reo Māori, so stay tuned to hear more from our kaimahi!
Te Wiki o te Reo Māori - Kākāpō (pūrākau and whakatauākī) Auckland Zoo 2023-09-12 | Do you know why the kākāpō is so perfectly suited to life on the whenua? In this video, our conservation learning facilitator Talena shares pūrākau, special facts and a beautiful whakatauākī about the kākāpō in honour of Te Wiki o te Reo Māori. Auckland Zoo would like to acknowledge Ngāi Tahu as kaitiaki of this charismatic taonga species. Ngāi Tahu and the Department of Conservation’s Kākāpō Recovery Team have worked to increase the populations of kākāpō and today the species sits at an incredible 247 birds. The whakatauākī shared in this video was composed by the late Ngāpuhi Kaumātua Riki Cherrington and Tāne Davis, from Ngāi Tahu. It honours the importance of kākāpō as a taonga species to iwi, reflects on the role of this manu in the natural world, and recognises the role conservation has played in saving the kākāpō for generations to come. Our thanks and appreciation to Tāne Davis and Ngāi Tahu for permission to use the whakatauākī. This is the first in our three-part series for Te Wiki o te Reo Māori, so stay tuned to hear more from our kaimahi!
The Science of Animal Care - The Lowlands (Asian small-clawed otters) Auckland Zoo 2023-08-31 | We’re giving you a behind the scenes look at the design of the Zoo’s new Asian small-clawed otter habitat!Follow along with our experts to learn more about this complex and intricate build. Their stunning habitat includes a flowing stream for swimming in, a myriad of places for the otters to nest and hide in – including both real and fabricated tree stumps, and a state-of-the-art indoor area which enables our keepers to provide the very best care to this raft of otters. Our carnivore team leader Lauren explains, “Some of the aspects of the design that were really important to me were all based on otter behaviour. What is interesting about Asian small-clawed otters is that they're actually more terrestrial and more land-based than many other otters, so one thing that people will notice that there is a large land area.”If you missed the previous episodes in this series, you can watch them in our 'Science of Care' playlist.
How we care for the Zoos clever devils! Auckland Zoo 2023-08-24 | Did you know – Tasmanian devils have the strongest bite per body size of any mammal?In this video, we follow carnivore keepers Steph and Nick as they provide a nutritious and enriching meal for the three devils at Auckland Zoo and discuss how we care for them.Purinina is the name for Tasmanian devils in palawa kani, the language of Tasmanian Aborigine – and is where they get their beautiful names Nita, Nawnta and Luna.The purinina at Auckland Zoo play an important role as advocates for their wild counterparts in Tasmania. We’re proud to be partnered with Australia’s Save the Tasmanian Devil Program and their work ensuring a future for this endangered species, which is under threat from the deadly Devil Facial Tumour Disease (DFTD).
Meet two rare New Zealand skinks from Otago! Auckland Zoo 2023-08-18 | Could you spot the difference between a grand and Otago skink?These rare skinks are native to Otago and have a conservation threat status of ‘nationally critically endangered’ - inhabiting just eight per cent of their former range. A few years ago, Auckland Zoo was part of a coordinated conservation breed for release programme for these skinks which were released at Mokomoko Sanctuary just outside Alexandra. In this video ectotherms team leader Dave explains more about them, and what makes Aotearoa New Zealand’s lizards so fascinating!This weekend - grab a copy of our field guide and see how many lizards you can identify at the Zoo! Alternatively, you can download a copy at home and test your knowledge with a friend or family member – https://fal.cn/3AI4A.
Amazing news for orphaned kererū! Auckland Zoo 2023-08-11 | In late 2021, a young orphaned kererū (New Zealand wood pigeon) was found on a golf course, unable to fly, and was thought to have respiratory disease.Thankfully, this precious manu was cared for by the skilled team at Massey Wildbase, yet as our veterinary services manager James explains, she was ultimately unable to be re-wilded.The great news is, we’re able to provide an incredible home for ‘Sprinkles’ who has joined our amazing animal experience team. Here, she can connect with our wonderful visitors and be an important advocate for her wild cousins, educating them about this endemic species and their vital role in the New Zealand ecosystem.Follow along with Emily as she explains Sprinkles journey to this point, and where you might be able to see her next!
The Science of Animal Care - The Lowlands (Sumatran tigers) Auckland Zoo 2023-07-26 | We’re giving you a behind the scenes look at the design of the Zoo’s new Sumatran tiger habitat!Follow along with our experts to learn more about this complex and unique build that sees the creation of two tiger bridges that link to three separate habitat areas – allowing us flexibility to manage Sumatran tigers Ramah and Zayana, and any offspring they may have in the future!Their stunning habitat includes a climbing tree for enriching feeds, a bespoke wall that enables behavioural training for health checks, themed tiger dens, as well as a cascading waterfall, beach area and bamboo thickets for the tigers to rest in. Their warm indoor area features an incredible ‘bio-floor’ made from a naturalistic substrate that is soft on their paws.Our senior curator of mammals Warren explains, “We've packed through the entire area with complexity, the reason that we've provided so much of this is we want to give the tigers choice. It's their habitat, they decide where they want to be.”If you missed the previous episodes in this series, check out our playlist here - studio.youtube.com/playlist/PLDn1UzDiwc6pt_Ed9ZQs2jSSseq4O5ayy/videos.
Conserving Kea in Matukituki Valley Auckland Zoo 2023-06-16 | Earlier this year, bird keeper Jasmine ventured to Matukituki Valley in Mt Aspiring National Park to assist our partners Kea Conservation Trust with vital conservation fieldwork.The knowledge our bird keepers have in handling intelligent parrots like kea safely and reliably is extremely valuable for conservation work like this, and Jasmine was able to assist the Trust's rangers with banding and fitting transmitters to wild kea.These charismatic birds are nationally endangered and are estimated to number less than 5,000 individuals in the wild. The monitoring work that Kea Conservation Trust carry out allows conservationists to better understand their reproductive successes, estimate sub-adult and adult kea populations in the valley, and document the risk from predators to these incredible alpine parrots.Auckland Zoo has been supporting Kea Conservation Trust since 2009 and you enable this mahi every time you visit kea at the Zoo.
The Science of Animal Care - The Swamp Forest Auckland Zoo 2023-05-12 | How do you create the perfect hot and humid habitat for Southeast Asian crocodiles and fish?Using the best in science and habitat design, experts from Aotearoa and around the world have been brought together to create our Swamp Forest habitat.In the second episode in our 4-part series, we follow the design, construction and opening of this lush and immersive space. Guiding us through this episode are various experts from Auckland Zoo who, along with our skilled design and construction partners, made this dynamic vision a reality.If you missed the first episode on our High Canopy habitat, you can watch it here - youtu.be/ANgoZ4QLSrs.
Motions Creek at Auckland Zoo (9 May 2023) Auckland Zoo 2023-05-09 | Kia kaha to our wonderful community in Tāmaki Makaurau / Auckland.As you can see from this video, there is currently a torrent of water rushing through Motions Creek at the Zoo. We will remain closed until at least midday tomorrow, when we will assess and make a decision as to when the Zoo can reopen.We want to reassure our caring community that all of the Zoo’s animals are safe and accounted for. A few species such as the takahē, American alligators and the native lizards in our High Country habitat have been temporarily relocated due to the risk of potential flooding.As always, we hope everyone is safe and dry during this time. Please stay tuned to our social channels and website for updates.
Zoos big cats enjoy super-sized meals! Auckland Zoo 2023-04-20 | When you visit Auckland Zoo next - you might see our carnivores enjoying a ‘super-sized’ meal!To ensure the very best possible care for our big cats we provide them with large pieces of meat on the bone (portions or whole carcasses) to eat. This gives these animals the ability to express their highly adapted natural feeding behaviours – as they would in the wild.As our carnivore team leader Lauren explains, “it really allows our big cats to use a lot of the musculoskeletal system that they have, especially in their heads and cheeks, for chewing and tearing meat off of bones. They’re also getting to use their carnassial teeth…which helps them to shear meat off of bone. It’s fantastic nutrition, sees them expending lots of energy physically and mentally, and for social animals like lions, otters and Tasmanian devils, greatly aids social dynamics.”All of this meat (including chicken, mice, rats, rabbit, possum, wallaby, goat, horse, cow, and deer) and fish is sourced from approved pet food suppliers that are accredited and audited by the Ministry for Primary Industries and meet all health and safety protocols.We believe this is an amazing educational opportunity for our wonderful visitors. We always provide advance notice of carcass feeding times via signage boards at the entry/exits to these habitats and our Zoo volunteers are also present to chat, answer questions, and explain the benefits of carcass feeding.
Rearing a kororā (little penguin) chick Auckland Zoo 2023-04-06 | We’ve successfully hatched and reared a healthy kororā chick!You may remember when we shared the news about this kororā (little penguin) hatching late last year. In previous years, in a large part because of their disabilities, our colony of penguin rescues have not been successful in rearing their own chicks.In this video, we follow our birds team leader Carl and bird keeper Casey as they explain the decision to step in and rear this chick, and the process from hatching, to successfully rearing and re-introducing Tamāroa to the kororā colony.
Caring for kākāpō affected with the disease cloacitis Auckland Zoo 2023-03-16 | Cloacitis is a debilitating disease that affects kākāpō – but the great news is we know how to treat it.In this video we follow our veterinary services manager James Chatterton and other kaimahi as they care for previous kākāpō patients Bravo, Huarangi, Vori and Bunker.Colloquially known as ‘crusty bum’, cloacitis causes painful scabbing of the bird’s cloaca – the area from which they excrete waste and female birds lay eggs. It was first observed in their populations just over twenty years ago and affects birds on their sanctuary islands of Whenua Hou and Anchor Island.Our Zoo vet team is privileged to be able to support our wonderful partners at the Department of Conservation’s Kākāpō Recovery with veterinary care for these precious birds. With just 248 kākāpō in the world today, each bird has an important role to play in the future of their species.
Trainee Keeper at Auckland Zoo - Kiwi Auckland Zoo 2023-03-13 | Join our Conservation Learning team for the day as they help you become a Trainee Keeper for one of the Zoo's endemic ratites – the North Island brown kiwi! Download your training booklet and complete the tasks to become an expert at the science of caring for kiwi: cdn.aucklandunlimited.com/zoo/assets/media/azoo-cl-trainee-keeper-for-the-day-kiwi-online-booklet-a4-01v3.pdf.
Jane reflects on 20+ years telling the Zoos stories! Auckland Zoo 2023-03-10 | Releasing Zoo-bred wētāpunga to offshore islands, celebrating the life of beloved Asian elephant Kashin and helping to produce the award-winning TV series ‘The Zoo’ (that aired from 1999 – 2012) – these are just a few of the heartfelt stories our communications manager Jane Healy has been proud to share.In the latest episode of our 100th anniversary series, Jane looks back on her 20+ years at Auckland Zoo to share her memories and experiences, as well as her love of the Zoo whānau and our collective mahi for wildlife.You can watch previous episodes in this series here - aucklandzoo100.co.nz/zoo-videos.
Rescued kāhu takes flight at Auckland Zoo Auckland Zoo 2023-03-02 | Arriving with a serious injury to her right eye, this kāhu (Australasian harrier) also showed general weakness – a common sign of lead poisoning in birds of prey.To determine the cause of the bird’s condition, our vet team performed a range of tests which included radiographs, endoscopy, blood tests and eye exams carried out by an external specialist. The results of these tests confirmed she was permanently visually impaired in her right eye and had high levels of lead in her blood.Thankfully for this kāhu, our vet team were able to successfully treat her for lead poisoning – but this is an unlikely outcome for the majority of wild birds. Many of New Zealand’s bird species are affected by lead poisoning, such as our endemic kea and kākā. These birds are able to easily find lead in their environment – in buildings built prior to the 1990s, materials such as nail heads, roof flashings and leaded paint, as well as in lead shot used by hunters and weights used by fishermen.Due to her permanent eye injury, she is unable to return to the wild, but has started an enriching new chapter of her life as an advocacy bird – engaging with our wonderful visitors and telling the story of the harmful effects of lead poisoning on New Zealand’s wildlife.You can learn more about how lead poisoning impacts wildlife here - www.aucklandzoo.co.nz/news/rescued-kahu-takes-flight-at-auckland-zoo
And thats a wrap...2022! Auckland Zoo 2022-12-31 | Ngā mihi o te tau hou / Happy New Year! Its almost 2023, a perfect time to share some highlights from ‘the year that was’ and say a heartfelt thank you for all your support.It’s been a special year for us – as we continue to celebrate 100 years of being Auckland’s Zoo!It was an incredible year for the animal whānau at the Zoo with the arrival of two Sunda gharial crocodiles and Sumatran tigers Ramah and Zayana ahead of the completion of our immersive South East Asia Jungle Track.There was also a whole host of animals who hatched or were born this year - including two flamingo chicks, more tiny Galápagos tortoises, the successful hand-rear and reintroduction of a kororā / little penguin chick in a move towards a sustainable colony, as well as the births of Southern white rhino calf Amali, giraffe calf Jabali and orangutan baby Bahmi! Read more about everything we achieved together this year for wildlife and wild places at aucklandzoo.co.nz/news.
A 14+ year career conserving endemic birds! Auckland Zoo 2022-12-09 | The skills learnt in good zoos are invaluable for conserving wildlife in the wild!In the latest episode of our centenary series, senior bird keeper Natalie discusses her passion for New Zealand’s endemic birds and the conservation work she’s been involved with in her 14+ years at the Zoo – from kākāriki karaka to North Island brown kiwi.Natalie says, “An important part of our job is talking with the public and inspiring them to learn about the animals and want to care about them, but I believe that it makes your work more authentic if you can share personal experiences with visitors – work that I’ve actually gone into the field and done. I’m hoping that I can make a difference in that person’s life and in their attitudes towards wildlife.”You can watch previous episodes in this series in our 'Auckland Zoo - celebrating 100 years' playlist.
Flying high - our flight school takes off! Auckland Zoo 2022-12-01 | We’re flying high in our 99th (and soon to be 100th) year!In this latest episode celebrating the Zoo’s centenary, our animal experience team leader Lizzy discusses the role and evolution of our incredible free flight encounters.Originally starting with just a few advocacy manu (birds), these immersive and interactive flight displays have grown to include a diverse range of species. These include previous pets that were donated to the Zoo, as well as rescued and rehabilitated wildlife that, because of their disabilities, were unable to be released back into the wild.These free flight encounters take place at 11.45am every day of the week, where you can learn more about these charismatic characters, their specific behaviours and adaptations, and how to best support their wild cousins through positive, collective actions (like purchasing forest-friendly paper and wood products!)You can find all of the videos in this series in our 100th playlist.
Sunda gharial crocodiles arrive at Auckland Zoo! Auckland Zoo 2022-11-24 | In this video our senior ectotherm keeper Julie details freshwater crocodiles Malu and Sumpit’s arrival from Krokodille Zoo in Denmark. Ahead of their arrival, Julie spent time in Denmark with the expert team there, where she was able to learn more about the species and how they are cared for.Shy and secretive, Sunda gharial crocodiles are one of the world’s largest crocodilian species (able to reach up to 5-6 metres in length) and are renowned for their slender, distinctive snouts. Come and immerse yourself in the heat, sounds and smells of our climate controlled tropical dome. At different times of the day you’ll experience the mist and rain, while admiring the 13 different fish species (including Asian arowana) and thousands of plants that are thriving in this beautiful humid environment. It's an experience not to be missed!
Introducing Southern white rhino calf Amali! Auckland Zoo 2022-10-27 | Watch Southern white rhino calf Amali’s exciting journey into the world!Amali (meaning ‘Hope’) was born in the early hours of 24 September, so she is currently just over one month old.As ungulates keeper Dan explains, she has been busy exploring her habitat with mum Jamila and big sister Nyah – including lots of zoomies, and rolling around in the herd’s relaxing mud wallow.
30+ years of incredible Zoo volunteers! Auckland Zoo 2022-10-25 | Sharing exciting animal news, pitching in with odd jobs, or helping our visitors find their way - our 200+ part-time volunteers make the Zoo a truly wonderful place to be!In our latest episode focusing on Auckland Zoo’s centenary year, volunteer manager Jill and senior volunteer coordinator Fiona reflect on 30+ years of our volunteer programme and how it has evolved over this time.Jill explains, “What makes Auckland volunteers special is their dedication and commitment. They do give a lot of their time and a lot of their energy to promoting what we do here at the Zoo. A wonderful, cheerful, friendly, cake-sharing group of people and it’s those special relationships that I think really makes the volunteers here super-stars really.”You can watch our previous episodes in our centenary series at aucklandzoo100.co.nz/our-stories
Wild Heroes - Auckland Zoo on screen! Auckland Zoo 2022-09-30 | Auckland Zoo is coming to your screens from Saturday 8 October (7pm on Three and streaming on threenow.co.nz) in an exciting new wildlife conservation series, ‘Wild Heroes’.Produced with our partners, Magnetic Pictures, this nine-episode series takes you behind-the-scenes here at the Zoo, and out into the wild across Aotearoa New Zealand to discover the vital roles a modern progressive zoo like Auckland plays in 2022 – our 100th year! From Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf islands to the forests of the Coromandel and on the South Island’s west coast, you can follow our specialist staff and the mahi they do with our conservation partners to help protect and conserve some of our most extraordinary and threatened taonga.
Meet weeks old giraffe calf Jabali! Auckland Zoo 2022-09-21 | We’re excited to take you on the journey of Jabali’s first few weeks of life!In this video, we follow ungulates keepers Vicky and Ben as they discuss being there for giraffe calf Jabali’s birth on 19 August, and introducing him to his habitat mates the zebra, ostrich and guinea fowl for the first time. To ensure Kiraka’s pregnancy and labour went well, our keepers were watching her closely via CCTV cameras. This enabled the team to head to the Zoo immediately at signs that her labour was about to begin – and you can see this incredible footage in our video.You can visit Jabali and his giraffe whānau this long weekend – we’re open Saturday, Sunday and Monday (26 September) from 9.30am – 4.30pm with last entry at 3.30pm.
Trainee Keeper at Auckland Zoo - Birds Auckland Zoo 2022-09-11 | Join our Conservation Learning Team for the day as they help you become a Trainee Keeper for one of the Zoo's special birds - Captain the Sulphur-crested cockatoo!Download your training booklet and complete the tasks to become an expert at the science of caring for cockatoos: rfacdn.nz/zoo/assets/media/azoo-cl-trainee-keeper-for-the-day-captain-online-booklet-a4-02.pdf.
Trainee Keeper at Auckland Zoo - Ungulates Auckland Zoo 2022-07-14 | Join our Conservation Learning Team for the day as they help you become a Trainee Keeper for one of our large ungulate species at Auckland Zoo!Download your training booklet and complete the five tasks to become an expert at the science of caring for giraffe: cdn.aucklandunlimited.com/zoo/assets/media/azoo-cl-trainee-keeper-for-the-day-giraffe-online-booklet-a4-03.pdf.
Meet 11-week-old orangutan baby Bahmi! Auckland Zoo 2022-06-02 | We’re taking you behind the scenes on orangutan Melur’s pregnancy journey – from the initial pre-pregnancy health exam at our vet hospital (with help from an expert sonographer), right through to the successful birth of her and Charlie’s baby. You’ll get a detailed look at the incredible care our primate team provide these great apes, that went into all aspects of the pregnancy and birth. This mahi included crucial positive-reinforcement training with Melur so that the primate keepers and our vet team could assist if Melur or the baby needed medical intervention. As primate keeper Sarah explains this is such a special and rare opportunity for our staff and our visitors to watch as Bahmi grows and develops – and we look forward as he reaches more milestones in the coming months. Come and visit the orangutan family this long weekend! We’re open all of Queen’s Birthday weekend (Saturday, Sunday and Monday) from 9.30am-4.30pm, with last entry at 3.30pm.
Creative Kaitiaki - Takahē Auckland Zoo 2022-05-30 | Our Conservation Learning Team are back to explore more endemic wildlife from our backyard here in Aotearoa New Zealand. This time, we get to know one of New Zealand's most elusive manu - the South Island takahē - which was believed to be extinct until it was rediscovered about 75 years ago!You will learn all about these flightless birds, the threats they face in the wild and how saving them starts with managing ourselves and our animals at home. Get out your craft supplies and explore creative ways to connect with nature - so you can become even better kaitiaki for wildlife and wild spaces!Browse more resources online to use at home or school at aucklandzoo.co.nz/kids
Richard reflects on 50+ years caring for wildlife Auckland Zoo 2022-05-19 | Setting up New Zealand’s first centre for conservation medicine, helping to breed the rarest duck in the world and caring for kākāpō on their sanctuary islands – Richard Jakob-Hoff’s extensive career has always been focused on conserving and understanding more about wildlife.In our latest episode reflecting on the Zoo’s centenary year, Richard looks back on his 30+ years at Auckland Zoo and highlights a few of the incredible conservation-focused projects he’s been a key part of during this time.You can watch our previous episodes in our centenary series here - aucklandzoo100.co.nz/our-stories
Trainee Keeper at Auckland Zoo - Carnivores Auckland Zoo 2022-04-21 | Join our Conservation Learning Team for the day as they help you become a Trainee Keeper for one of our large carnivore species at Auckland Zoo!Download your training booklet and complete 5 tasks to become an expert at using the Science of Care approach to learn about our cheetahs: rfacdn.nz/zoo/assets/media/azoo-cl-trainee-keeper-for-the-day-cheetah-online-booklet-a4-p.pdf
Richard reflects on Auckland Zoos conservation mahi (work) Auckland Zoo 2022-04-14 | Caring for an insurance population of endemic skinks, breeding and releasing giant wētā to offshore islands, and spreading awareness for New Zealand species – the Zoo’s conservation work is vital and varied. In our latest episode reflecting on the Zoo’s centenary year, our head of animal care and conservation Richard Gibson discusses his background as a herpetologist (‘reptile man’), the role of our beautiful and immersive New Zealand track Te Wao Nui, and how Auckland Zoo’s conservation efforts have evolved both locally and globally. You can watch previous episodes in our centenary series on our 'Auckland Zoo - Celebrating 100 Years' playlist.
