Te Nukuao Wellington Zoo

Set into the hills of the city-fringe suburb of Newtown, Te Nukuao Wellington Zoo is a thoroughly modern institution dedicated to conservation and sustainability. From solving a lion’s itchy ears to keeping native penguins well-fed, the team of veterinarians and keepers know how to keep animals happy and put their welfare first.

Walking around the 13-hectare zoo, you’ll see a happy group of well-looked-after creatures in habitats designed for their specific needs. The staff at Wellington Zoo prioritise animal welfare in everything they do. With more than 500 animals on site, the keepers have their hands full.

There’s always plenty to take in when you visit. See a gibbon hanging from a tree or a lion basking in the sun. Spy native birds like kea soaring overhead in their free-flight habitat, or hop into the Australian precinct, where kangaroos roam.

A close-up experience

Visitors to Wellington Zoo can book an experience behind the scenes as well. The Close Encounters programme allows you to meet a wide range of animals. You’re joined by a specialist Zookeeper. They will share their knowledge of the animals, answer your questions, and keep you safe. There are 12 encounters to choose from, including otters, ring-tailed lemurs, tigers, and sun bears. Some allow the animals to interact with you (capybara), while in others, you get to prepare for feeding time (snow leopards).

Leading the sustainability pack

Wellington Zoo’s commitment to making the world a better place goes beyond its animal programmes. It is consistently recognised as a leader in sustainability. This is a thread that runs through everything it does, down to the staff uniform suppliers and the souvenirs sold in the gift shop.

Wellington Zoo is also the world’s first Toitū carboNZero certified zoo, meaning it’s officially carbon neutral. It’s programmes like this that make Wellington Zoo so wonderful. Everything it does respects the natural environment, animal welfare, sustainability, and conservation. Setting an example for visitors and locals alike.