Auckland Zoo Tours and Activities

Auckland Zoo featuring land animals and zoo animals
Auckland Zoo which includes zoo animals and land animals as well as an individual male
Auckland Zoo showing zoo animals and animals
Auckland Zoo which includes animals and zoo animals
Auckland Zoo showing bird life and zoo animals


The pygmy marmoset and the massive white rhino are among the rare wildlife you’ll find here, along with species from across New Zealand and beyond.

Spanning some 17 hectares and featuring scores of species of animals from all over the world, the Auckland Zoo is home to white rhinos, Sumatran tigers and many other creatures in life-like habitats that capture the richness and scale of life all across planet Earth.

With as many as 1,000 animals living inside the zoo, you should try to plan your visit around Animal Encounters, a series of scheduled sessions with the zoo keepers. There are between 5 and 10 sessions every day, each offering the chance to find out about the animals and how they are handled. You may even get the chance to help feed them. Pick up a timetable along with your zoo map when you come through the main entrance.

Admire the giraffes, ostriches and zebras on the savannah from one of the viewing platforms. Here you’ll also find the zoo’s pride of lions in their own hilltop habitat. Nearby, there’s the elephant habitat, where you can watch the antics of the Asian variety of the pachyderm.

Head for the Te Wao Nui area of the zoo where there’s more information on New Zealand’s wildlife, with displays on the ecosystems of the North and South islands. In the Night Habitat, see the country’s enigmatic bird, the kiwi, along with native bats and the giant weta.

The zoo’s medical centre has a viewing gallery where you can see vets and researchers hard at work. You can see them carrying out operations and treating the animals right there and then.

Just eight minutes away from downtown by car, Auckland Zoo is open every day except for Christmas Day, opening late every Wednesday evening in February and March. If you’re driving, there are two large on-site paid car parks available. Buses are available to take you from downtown Auckland to the zoo’s entrance.

Plan a trip to see Auckland Zoo

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
The Hotel Britomart
Delamore Lodge
Luminous on Anzac

Tours & day trips

See all 242 activities

Private & custom tours

See all 99 activities

Cruises & boat tours

See all 15 activities

Adventure & outdoor

See all 12 activities

Spa & wellness

See all 6 activities

Popular places to visit


Top Auckland Zoo Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Cordis, Auckland by Langham Hospitality Group

Cordis, Auckland by Langham Hospitality Group

5 out of 5
83 Symonds Street, Box 2771, Auckland
Cordis, Auckland by Langham Hospitality Group
The Grand by SkyCity

The Grand by SkyCity

5 out of 5
90 Federal Street, Auckland
The Grand by SkyCity
The Convent Hotel

The Convent Hotel

3 out of 5
454 Great N Rd, Auckland, Auckland
The Convent Hotel
The Surrey Hotel

The Surrey Hotel

4 out of 5
465 Great North Road, Grey Lynn, Auckland
The Surrey Hotel
The Village Reserve

The Village Reserve

4 out of 5
58 Dryden St, Auckland, Auckland
The Village Reserve
Hotel Grand Chancellor Auckland

Hotel Grand Chancellor Auckland

3 out of 5
80 Wellesley Street West, Auckland, Auckland
Hotel Grand Chancellor Auckland
SkyCity Hotel

SkyCity Hotel

4.5 out of 5
Corner Victoria and Federal Streets, Auckland
SkyCity Hotel
Abstract Hotel

Abstract Hotel

4.5 out of 5
8 Upper Queen Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland, Auckland
Abstract Hotel
Fresh & sleek Grey Lynn unit with private patio

Fresh & sleek Grey Lynn unit with private patio

3 out of 5
38 Hadlow Terrace, Auckland
Fresh & sleek Grey Lynn unit with private patio
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Auckland Zoo

At Auckland Zoo, you can enjoy a fun-filled day exploring diverse animal exhibits and engaging in educational activities. Nearby, there's an exciting aqua park for a splash of adventure and plenty of options for shopping and walking. Whether you're taking a leisurely stroll through the zoo or planning a trip to the aqua park, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant part of Auckland.

Shopping

Auckland Zoo offers nearby shopping at the Queen Street Shopping District, just 4.8km away, bustling with a vibrant mix of shops and entertainment. Victoria Park, 3.2km away, has a lively market atmosphere. For a larger selection, Westfield St Luke's Shopping Centre is also only 3.2km away.

Recreation

At Eden Park, immerse yourself in the energetic atmosphere of New Zealand's premier sports stadium, perfect for catching a match or enjoying the vibrant surroundings. For a leisurely day, Chamberlain Park Public Golf Course offers a scenic outdoor space for golf enthusiasts, while Western Springs Stadium provides a lively sports vibe nearby.

Adventure

At Auckland Zoo, you can enjoy the adventure of Clip 'n Climb, a climbing experience located 3.2km away, perfect for thrill-seekers. For a scenic hike, head to Point To Point Walkway, 12.9km away, offering stunning views and outdoor vibes. Don't miss Gulfwind Sailing Academy, also 3.2km away, for exhilarating water sports.

Nightlife

Auckland Zoo's nightlife offers a vibrant atmosphere with nearby venues like The Civic Theater, Aotea Centre, and ASB Waterfront Theatre, all within a few miles. Each spot is perfect for enjoying captivating performances, enriching culture, and romantic evenings, making it an exciting experience for visitors.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Auckland Zoo

Auckland Zoo is a fantastic destination for all types of travellers, offering a mix of urban parks, entertainment facilities, and nearby beaches. Whether you’re after cultural experiences or family outings, there’s plenty to explore. The zoo grounds are just a short walk from attractions like the Auckland Museum, making it easy to enjoy a day filled with nature and learning. With numerous activities available, your visit to Auckland Zoo promises to be memorable.

  • Sky Tower: Experience breathtaking views of Auckland from the Sky Tower, a modern architectural marvel located 3.2km from Auckland Zoo. It offers a vibrant city atmosphere, and you can enjoy dining and entertainment options while taking in panoramic sights.
  • University of Auckland: Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of New Zealand at the University of Auckland, situated 4.8km away. This historic institution boasts stunning architecture and beautiful gardens, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
  • Spark Arena: Located 4.8km from the zoo, Spark Arena is an entertainment hub that hosts exciting concerts and events. With its lively atmosphere, it's a great spot for families and friends looking to enjoy a fun outing.

Best time to go to Auckland Zoo

The best time to visit Auckland Zoo can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Auckland Zoo falls in February, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Auckland Zoo falls in July, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January66.7°F (19.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
February67.6°F (19.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
March65.5°F (18.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
April62.6°F (17.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May58.8°F (14.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
June55.6°F (13.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
July53.6°F (12.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
August53.8°F (12.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
September55.0°F (12.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
October57.2°F (14.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November60.3°F (15.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly High
December64.2°F (17.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Auckland Zoo

When planning your visit to Auckland Zoo, consider travelling between May and July for lower accommodation prices. Booking about a month in advance can help secure better rates, especially on Mondays, while Saturdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia to find cheap hotels and special offers by sorting options from lowest to highest price. Combining your hotel stay with flights and activities in a package deal can also save you money. Don't forget to explore free activities around Auckland to make the most of your trip without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Auckland Zoo are May to July, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February to March and November, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Auckland Zoo about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Auckland Zoo is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Auckland Zoo is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to tailor your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you’re after. To find the most affordable options and special offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay near Auckland Zoo with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.