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Wellington Zoo was and is the first zoo of New Zealand; founded in 1906 the zoo is also the country’s oldest conservation organization. Though originally Wellington Zoo was run by Wellington City Council but at present it is being operated by a charitable trust on the behalf of Wellington City Council. Note that this arrangement came into being in 2003 when the zoo became a not-for-profit organization.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Attraction Name | Wellington Zoo |
| Location | 200 Daniell Street, Newtown, Wellington, New Zealand |
| Overview | Established in 1906, Wellington Zoo is New Zealand’s first zoo and a leader in animal conservation and education. It’s home to over 500 animals from around the world, offering engaging wildlife encounters and eco-friendly experiences for all ages. |
| Top Highlights | – Close encounters with lions, red pandas, and meerkats – The Nest Te Kōhanga – animal hospital and visitor experience – Conservation-themed exhibits – Daily animal talks and feedings |
| Opening Hours | 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (Last entry at 4:15 PM) |
| Best Time to Visit | Morning or late afternoon to see animals at their most active. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends. |
| Ticket Prices | – Adults: NZD $27 – Children (3–14 years): NZD $13 – Students/Seniors: NZD $22 – Family Pass (2 adults + 2 kids): NZD $70 (Prices may vary) |
| Facilities | – Free parking – Café and picnic areas – Gift shop – Accessibility-friendly paths |
| Getting There | – By Car: 10 mins drive from Wellington city centre – By Bus: Route 23 stops near the main entrance – By Walk: About 40 minutes from the CBD through Newtown |
| Tips for Visitors | – Arrive early for animal talks – Bring a refillable water bottle – Check the weather before your visit – Support conservation by donating or adopting an animal |
| Website | www.wellingtonzoo.com |
The Zoo was opened in 1906, at the hands of Prime Minister Richard Seddon; interestingly,later on, he was presented with a young lion by Bostock and Wombwell’s Circus; the lion’s name was King Dick. Over the years, the zoo underwent a gradual expansion and upgradations and committed itself to a future in environmental education with the aim to increase human/animal interaction.
If you want to experience behind-the-scene activities, when the zoo closes for the day, you can spend a night here to catch the fun. Costing $40 per person, a group of minimum 20 people and maximum 80 can book a sleepover; the cost includes Zoo’s entry fee and a light snack plus breakfast. Since dinner is not covered in the sleepover which starts at 7pm till 9:30 am the next day, make sure that you have had something for dinner before arriving for the sleepover.
