Behind The Experience Taronga Zoo

Welcome to the second instalment of our brand new ‘Behind the Experience' series, where we take you behind the scenes to meet the friendly faces behind all of our extraordinary experiences across Australia and New Zealand.

In this feature, we chat to Amy Hackett, Tourism Sales Executive at Taronga Zoo. Amy has kindly given us a sneak peek into life in Sydney and her role at Taronga Zoo, known around the world for its stunning waterfront location on the Sydney Harbour.

1. Please tell us about yourself and what you love most about your job?

After spending almost ten years working across many roles in hotels I made the leap into a Tourism Sales Executive role at Taronga Zoo. It was a huge leap as I was sent to China for my first sales mission just two weeks after I started. And I love going back each year.

There’s so many parts of my job that I love! But I would have to say being able to go and visit animals and taking in the gorgeous sites of Sydney harbour on my lunch break is pretty amazing. Oh, I also have pretty awesome agents and colleagues.

2. Do you have a favourite animal or section of Taronga Zoo and why?

I love goats! Taronga’s “Backyard to Bush” is my favourite section.

3. When you aren’t busy welcoming visitors, where is your favourite place to holiday in Australia and why?

Thredbo! I love skiing and the mountain air, so I look forward to our ski season in June-August each year.

4. What is your favourite hidden gem in Sydney?

This is a tip for any walkers/swimmers out there. There’s some beautiful small beaches along the Spit to Manly walk. It takes a few hours to do the walk (whilst stopping for a swim) but well worth the trip. I always head to Manly Wharf bar once I am finished for a well-deserved beer.

5. Why must Australians visit Taronga Zoo at least once in their life?

Anyone that has come to Taronga knows exactly why everyone must visit. It’s the Zoo with the View! Not only does Taronga have exotic and native animals, but it overlooks the magnificent Sydney Harbour with views almost everywhere you walk. We also have two unique accommodation offerings giving people the opportunity to undertake some amazing overnight experiences.

Sydney's Taronga Zoo is one of the nation's leading zoological gardens, featuring one of Australia's finest collections of native animals and a diverse collection of exotic species. What makes Taronga something special is its location. Only 12 minutes by ferry from the city- It is situated on elevated land along the waterfront, in one of the most beautiful vantage points on Sydney Harbour overlooking Sydney Cove, the Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House.

Explore Taronga Zoo