Auckland Zoo

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Auckland Zoological Park is the main zoo of Auckland, New Zealand, located to the west of Auckland city in the Western Spring Reserve.

We have visited quite a few zoos around the world and although not huge, the zoo in Auckland is a good size so, it's better to arrive early to allow plenty of time to see everything.

Make sure you check the forecast as the Auckland weather has been known to dampen things.

The enclosures at the Zoo have been rebuilt to allow the animals to live in more natural surroundings. This allowed us to get up close but not too close for the animals to feel threatened.

There's a notice by the entrance that tells you the feeding times. It's a good idea to take a note of that......the kids loved it !

The animals are split into areas.

In Pridelands we saw giraffes, zebras, ostriches, white rhinos, springboks and lions. The Tropical Forest is where the monkeys hang out, a firm favourite of our son.

Penguin Shore allows you to go through a tunnel where you can see the penguins swimming.

Make sure you visit the sealions, we were watching them through the glass for ages, swimming gracefully.

Another must see for me was the kiwi and tuatara house where two of the most famous of New Zealand animals live.

It's a bit hard to see as the timid creatures are nocturnal so it's kept dark and quiet. Well worth it however. Be sure to bring your picnic with you as there are many places around the park to sit and relax. If you prefer not to, there's Darwin's restaurant on site which has very good hot and cold food and themed picnic boxes for the kids.

After eating it was time to relax , so we walked across from Darwins and jumped on the Safari Train which departs around every 20 minutes on a fun tour of the zoo grounds. (Cost NZ$3 per person).

On the way out we called into the Wild Zone gift shop for those all essential souvenirs and post cards.

A great day out for all !!

Adults NZ$18, Children (4-15yrs) NZ$9 and Students (with student ID) NZ$14

Prices correct at August 2007.

Be sure to check out the Auckland Zoo website for the latest information.

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