Auckland Zoo

Auckland Zoo is a major zoological garden in Auckland, New Zealand, opened in 1922 and operated as the city’s principal zoo. It occupies a purpose-built site next to Western Springs and focuses on animal care, conservation and education.

The collection combines native New Zealand species and international mammals, birds and reptiles across outdoor enclosures and themed precincts. The site covers roughly a few dozen hectares and holds well over a hundred species, with walkable paths and educational displays. Interactive and keeper-led talks, plus conservation programmes for threatened species, are regular features.

The zoo began as a municipal collection and expanded through the 20th century with landscaped exhibits and newer themed precincts. Recent developments have emphasised conservation, visitor education and improved animal habitats, including a large native-species precinct.

The grounds sit beside Western Springs Park about 3 to 4 kilometres west of Auckland’s central business district, adjacent to the MOTAT transport museum and bounded by urban residential areas.

• Location detail: Set beside Western Springs Park and the Museum of Transport and Technology, with pedestrian access from Motions Road.
• Native precinct: Contains a large native-animals precinct established as Te Wao Nui, which emphasises New Zealand species and ecosystems.