Auckland Zoo: A Wild Day Out for Kids & Families in Auckland

Auckland Zoo: A Wild Day Out for Kids & Families in Auckland

Giraffe at Auckand Zoo in New Zealand

Explore Auckland Zoo with the Kids

Auckland Zoo is one of the top family attractions in New Zealand, home to more than 1,400 animals and 135 species. Located just minutes from central Auckland, the zoo offers a full day of fun, education, and discovery for school-aged children and their parents. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for another adventure, here’s everything you need to know for your visit in 2025.

What You See at Auckland Zoo?

Expect to see a wide variety of animals including:

  • Lions, tigers, and cheetahs

  • Giraffes and rhinos

  • Red pandas and meerkats

  • Otters, seals, and squirrel monkeys

  • Kiwis, tuatara, and wetapunga (giant wētā)

Tip: Visit the South East Asia Jungle Track to see orangutans and the playful otters!

Hands on Experiences for Families

Get closer than ever before with Auckland Zoo’s behind-the-scenes animal encounters. These experiences are perfect for families with school-aged children and offer unforgettable moments:

Zoo Experiences Available in 2025:

  • Red Panda Experience: Tempt the red panda down from the trees by offering them one of their favourite treats

  • Giraffe Experience: Admire the tallest animal on earth from a whole new perspective.

  • Galápagos Tortoise Experience: Get close to the world’s largest tortoise species.

  • Squirrel Monkey Experience: Discover how curious and agile these intelligent primates really are

  • Barn Owl Experience: Learn how to fly one of our beautiful barn owls during one of their daily training sessions.

All experiences must be booked in advance and children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult. Learn more and book at Auckland Zoo Experiences.

Birthday Parties

Kids can have their birthday party at the Zoo. Book exclusive use of the Zoo’s private party venue for 90 minutes, which comes with a dedicated party host, priority parking, plus, all-day zoo entry for up to 20 guests and discounted zoo entry for additional guests.

How to make the most of your visit

  • Opening Hours: Daily from 9:30am to 4:30pm (closed Christmas Day). Last entry is at 3:30pm.

  • Recommended Visit Time: Minimum 3 hours; a full day is ideal

  • Parking: Free onsite parking with mobility access

  • Food Options: Cafes, picnic areas, and ice cream stalls

Tip: Wear comfy shoes, and bring a refillable water bottle!

Entry Prices

  • Adults: $29.00

  • Children (4 to 14 years): $16.50

  • Under 4s: Free

  • Students/Seniors: $24.00

  • Auckland Residents: Discounts apply with proof of address

Prices are stated as at June 2025. 

Tickets are available online: Auckland Zoo Tickets

Location and contact

Address: Motions Road, Western Springs, Auckland 102, New Zealand
Phone:
09 360 3805
Website
www.aucklandzoo.co.nz

Auckland Zoo is located at Motions Road, Western Springs, Auckland 0975, New Zealand. The Zoo has free off-street parking for cars. Accessible car parking is available in the car park closest to the main entrance for vehicles displaying a mobility parking permit.

Stay Up to Date

For upcoming events, special family days, and conservation talks, visit Auckland Zoo’s What’s On page.

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