Wellington Zoo
New Zealand's first zoo, offering diverse animal encounters, conservation education, and themed playgrounds in a hilly, engaging landscape.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more animal activity
Wellington Zoo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more animal activity

Highlights
Must-see attractions
New Zealand's first zoo, offering diverse animal encounters, conservation education, and themed playgrounds in a hilly, engaging landscape.
"A well-maintained and engaging environment focused on conservation and education."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The zoo is hilly! Prioritize comfort for exploring all the exhibits.
⏰ Check Feeding Times
Maximize your visit by knowing when animals are most active and fed.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Capybara Close Encounter
Animal Encounters Area
Get up close and personal with the world's largest rodents in an unforgettable experience. Pure capybara joy!

Snow Leopard Habitat
Himalayan Highlands
Marvel at these elusive big cats in their specially designed, steep habitat. A truly breathtaking sight.

Giraffe Viewing
African Savannah
Stand tall with these gentle giants and enjoy their impressive presence. A favorite for all ages.

Lemur Encounters
Madagascar
Meet playful lemurs, and if you're lucky, you might even see the new babies!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Hills
Plan Your Visit Wisely
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The zoo is hilly! Prioritize comfort for exploring all the exhibits.
⏰ Check Feeding Times
Maximize your visit by knowing when animals are most active and fed.
🎟️ Book Encounters Early
Popular close encounters sell out fast, book online in advance!
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water bottles; there are refill stations available.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The zoo is hilly! Prioritize comfort for exploring all the exhibits.
⏰ Check Feeding Times
Maximize your visit by knowing when animals are most active and fed.
🎟️ Book Encounters Early
Popular close encounters sell out fast, book online in advance!
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water bottles; there are refill stations available.
📱 Use the Zoo Map
Navigate the grounds easily with the provided map or app.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Wellington Zoo for its well-maintained grounds, diverse animal collection, and engaging staff. The conservation focus and unique close encounter experiences are frequently highlighted as major draws. Some visitors note the zoo's hilly terrain and occasional animal unavailability as minor drawbacks.
"Wellington Zoo is a must-visit! Perfect for nature lovers and kids. Loved the variety of animals, beautiful surroundings, and informative rangers. Ticketing was smooth, and the facilities (restrooms, food options) were great. Highly recommend!"
Sharanya rameshan.r
"We did a Close Encounter with the ring tailed Lemurs and it was fantastic. Zoo entry was included with the close encounter which made it good value and gave that something special to the zoo. We also really enjoyed talking to one of the volunteers at the zoo. She was full of stories and fun facts about the animals."
Nicole Monaghan
"Always nice to visit when in Wellington, ashame this time there where no big cats/bear visible and some things closed. Possibly due to time/date of visit. Had some amazing animals to see, huge giraffes. A nice place to take the kids."
Sebastiaan Verplanke
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wellington Zoo is easily accessible by public transport. Several bus routes stop nearby, and the Wellington Cable Car offers a scenic route with a connection to the zoo.
Parking is available on-site, but can fill up quickly on busy days.Yes, Wellington Zoo offers on-site parking. However, it can be limited, especially during peak times and weekends. Arriving early is recommended if you plan to drive.
Absolutely! Several local bus routes service the area around Wellington Zoo, making it a convenient option for visitors. Check the Metlink website for specific route information.
The zoo is generally accessible, but be aware that it is quite hilly. Many paths are paved, but some inclines can be challenging.
Accessible restrooms are available.You can take a bus directly to the zoo or combine the Wellington Cable Car with a short walk. The Cable Car offers great views and a unique start to your visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary for adults, children, and concessions. It's best to check the official Wellington Zoo website for the most up-to-date pricing and any potential deals or discounts.
Yes, purchasing Wellington Zoo tickets online in advance is highly recommended. This often saves time at the entrance and guarantees your entry, especially during busy periods.
Wellington Zoo typically opens daily, but hours can vary seasonally. Always check the official website for the most current Wellington Zoo opening hours and times before your visit.
Generally, Wellington Zoo requires admission fees for entry. However, they may offer special promotions or free entry days occasionally. Keep an eye on their website or social media for announcements.
Look out for Wellington Zoo deals on their website, especially during off-peak seasons or for special events. Membership options can also offer cost savings for frequent visitors.
🎫 🦁 Onsite Experience
Wellington Zoo houses a diverse range of animals, including snow leopards, giraffes, lions, sun bears, lemurs, and capybaras. You can find a full list of animals at Wellington Zoo on their website.
Yes, Wellington Zoo schedules various animal feeding times and keeper talks throughout the day. These are excellent opportunities to learn more about the animals and see them at their most active.
Wellington Zoo offers special 'Close Encounters' where you can get up close with certain animals like capybaras or lemurs. These are paid experiences and often include zoo admission.
Absolutely! Wellington Zoo has themed playgrounds and offers engaging experiences like close encounters and keeper talks that children love.
The zoo provides restrooms, picnic areas, and a cafe. Many visitors appreciate the multiple toilet access points throughout the grounds.
🍽️ 🍔 Food & Dining
Yes, Wellington Zoo has a cafe offering a range of food and drink options for visitors. You can also bring your own picnic to enjoy in designated areas.
Picnic areas are available, so you are welcome to bring your own food and drinks to enjoy at Wellington Zoo. This can be a great way to save money.
The cafe typically offers a selection of snacks, light meals, and beverages. Menu items can vary, so it's best to check on the day of your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for elevated viewpoints for animals like giraffes and try to capture candid moments during feeding times. The diverse habitats also offer great backdrops.
Yes, photography is generally permitted for personal use. However, always be mindful of the animals' welfare and avoid using flash photography, especially in sensitive areas.
While general photography is allowed, some areas or specific animal encounters might have restrictions. Always follow the guidance of zoo staff and signage.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide softer light and more active animals, making them ideal for photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember that the zoo is hilly, so strollers are recommended, and be prepared for some walking. Checking the daily schedule for keeper talks and feeding times will keep kids engaged and entertained throughout the visit.
💰 Budget Travelers
❤️ Couples & Day-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Wellington Zoo's Unique Terrain
The zoo's design encourages a sense of discovery as you navigate its slopes. While it can be a workout, the payoff is often stunning views and the chance to see animals in environments that mimic their natural habitats. The zoo staff are also a great resource for navigating the terrain and finding the best paths to specific exhibits.
Wellington Zoo's Conservation Efforts
Beyond breeding programs, the zoo also supports conservation projects in the wild. This includes efforts to protect native New Zealand wildlife, as highlighted by their involvement in programs like the Wellington Cable Car Bird Strike Prevention initiative. By visiting Wellington Zoo, you're not just enjoying a day out; you're contributing to crucial conservation work that helps safeguard biodiversity for future generations.
Unforgettable Animal Encounters
These encounters are a significant draw for many visitors and are often cited as a highlight of their trip. It's important to note that these experiences are typically an additional cost to general admission and have limited availability, so booking in advance is highly recommended. The value often comes from the intimate interaction and the educational component, making it a truly special part of a zoo visit.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit