Auckland Zoo

Auckland Zoo sits in Albert-Eden next to Western Springs Park and houses over 1,400 animals from 135 species in naturalistic enclosures across 16 hectares. The grounds are divided into several themed zones, including a section for African savanna animals and a tropical rainforest with elevated walkways.

The park opened on December 16, 1922, after acquiring animals from a private collection, and grew through the 1930s despite early veterinary problems. In the following decades, enclosures were gradually redesigned to give animals more space and more natural environments.

The entrance displays carved posts following Maori tradition, showing animals and guardian spirits in traditional patterns. Families use the open lawn areas between enclosures for picnics, especially on weekends and during school holidays.

The grounds offer two large parking areas with spots for cars and buses, while local residents receive discounted entry when booking tickets in advance. A full circuit usually takes two to three hours, depending on how much time you spend at each enclosure.

The Centre for Conservation Medicine, opened in 2007, allows visitors to watch veterinary procedures and is the first national facility of its kind worldwide. At night, special tours walk through the lit areas to see nocturnal species such as kiwis and owls in action.