Auckland Zoo General Admission
by Michelle Woodroff
Auckland Museum is one of the must-see and must-do experiences in the beautiful city of Auckland, especially if you're travelling with kids. Often renowned for being one of the best zoos in the country, Auckland Zoo provides visitors with an ideal, wildlife filled day out.
On a recent visit to Auckland, I visited the zoo and explored it with my nephew. It was an exciting day out that both he and I enjoyed thoroughly. Read all about my experience at Auckland Zoo below to prepare yourself for your upcoming trip.
Highlights
The diversity of animals at the zoo is one of the biggest highlights of any visit. Home to over 187 animals Auckland Zoo has the largest collection of animals in the country.
The zoo is home to NZ natives such as NZ Fur Seals, Kiwis and Tuataras, as well as a range of exotic and international animals including giraffes, cheetahs, lions, rhinos and tigers.
With free shows held throughout the day showcasing the animals and educating visitors on their feeding habits and daily lives, this is a great way to learn all about the animals for no extra charge.
If you're looking for even more of an experience, you can purchase an up-close animal encounter with a number of the zoo's most popular animals.
Another plus for visiting Auckland Zoo is that it is a strong supporter of conservation projects in the wild in both New Zealand and around the world.
What you will do
Get your bearings
Upon entering the zoo it's important to grab a map to help navigate your way around the zoo. With a number of different shelters, enclosures and exhibits to visit, you can plan out your day before your legs get sore from all of the exploring.
The zoo is spread over 17 hectares of land and is best explored in a whole day, so be sure you come prepared. There are numerous eateries located inside the zoo including Darwin's Cafe, The Watering Hole, Weta Cafe, and The Lookout, however, you are also permitted to bring your own food in and enjoy it at the various picnic spots around the park.
The African Exhibit
The zoo's diverse range of animals makes it a joy to explore. Our journey began at the African animal display. Here we were able to take some snaps of giraffes, zebras, rhinos, ostriches, meerkats and elephants to name a few.
This exhibit was a hit with kids visiting the park as it gave visitors to Auckland a chance to get up close to international animals.
Discover Aotearoa's Natural Treasures
One of the most popular attractions in the park, Discover Aotearoa's Natural Treasures is home to some of the country's most beloved animals. Here you will have the chance to see and learn about Kiwis, New Zealand Fur Seals, Moreporks and Tuataras.
If you have an interest in native New Zealand animals or would love to learn about the animals that naturally inhabit the country, this is the go-to exhibit for you.
Animal Encounters
There are a number of feeding sessions and demonstrations throughout the day, all completely free of charge. Held at the individual animal exhibits, you can watch a range of animals including tiger, alligator, elephant, penguin, spider monkeys, and giraffes be fed and shown off to the large crowds. Be sure you arrive early if you're looking to grab the best seats for the different encounters.
For specific times, it's best to check the website before you arrive or lookout for encounter information once you've arrived.
Lunch
As I mentioned above, there are a number of eateries located in the park. Come lunch time, if you haven't brought your own, you'll be spoilt for choice in terms of where to eat and what to eat.
Darwin's Cae, located near KidZone, serves up a range of hot and cold food perfect for kids and adults looking for a bite to eat. The Watering Hole is a great stop for coffee, ice-cream and lunch and lets you watch over the flamingos, lions and elephants while you dine and entertain the kids with a play area.
Other options for dining include The Lookout in the Te Wao Nui section serving up a range of different refreshments including tea, coffee and ice-cream. Lastly, Weta Cafe, located next to WildZone Gift Shop, is another hot spot for cafe-style food at lunch.
If you prefer to bring your own food to save a little extra money, you're more than welcome to. The park welcomes visitors to bring in food for lunch and supplies a number of picnic areas around the park which are perfect for sitting, relaxing and recouping.
KidZone
This is one of the most popular areas for visitors with kids, and it was definitely true on my latest visit.
KidZone features a number of play equipment for the kids to enjoy between animal viewings. All animal-themed, the outdoor playground is always a hit with the young ones, and once you've arrived to see the kids running around and playing, it won't be long until your kids run to join in.
The KidZone is also a popular place to visit for the zoo's resident kunekune pigs, Alma and Neena. The kids are able to get up close and say hi to the pigs as they walk around the park with the keepers on a daily basis.
What's Included?
- Admission to the zoo
- All animal enclosures
- Free presentations and shows
What to bring?
If you're not looking to purchase food and drink at the zoo, you're welcome to bring your own. Be sure to bring enough water for the day, however, there are drinking fountains located around the park.
Don't forget comfortable shoes! The park is spread out over 17 hectares of land, so get ready for a day of walking.
Your camera is one thing you won't want to forget as the photo opportunities at the park are incredible. It's also a good idea to bring an umbrella or rain jacket if you're visiting during the more sporadic-weather months.
How To Get There
By Car: Auckland Zoo is on Motions Road, just west of downtown Auckland and next to the Western Springs Reserve & Museum of Transport and Technology. The zoo is well signposted both east and westbound on the North-Western Motorway. There is FREE on-site parking.
By Bus: The closest stop is 8124 on Great North Road opposite Motions Road. It's then a short walk along Motions Road to the Zoo.
Our Recommendations
Auckland Zoo is one of the best animal attractions in the entire country and is great for visitors of all ages. Both young and small can enjoy the various animal exhibits, shows, feeding sessions and displays, making for one of the most comprehensive animal experiences around.
Be sure to buy your general admission tickets to the zoo online to avoid the large queues and to secure the best possible deal.
