At Wellington Zoo, we are the zoo with the biggest heart: a creative, innovative and progressive zoo.
We are a team of powerfully passionate individuals who are champions for the welfare of all animals - within and beyond the boundaries of the Zoo. We are supported by a community that actively takes part in our commitment to caring for and saving species locally, nationally and globally.
We are guided by our kaupapa, Me Tiaki, Kia Ora! We must look after our environment, so all things will flourish. It is up to us collectively to make a difference for animals and the wild places they call home.
Oranga creates the foundation for our Zoo Strategy and enables us to achieve the four pillars:
Whānau, Tinana, Hinengaro and Wairua.
As Wellington Zoo Tangata we:
Inspired by Tanē we protect our planet by:
Integrating the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals:
Life On Land, Life Below Water, Climate Action, Quality Education, Responsible Consumption and Production, and Sustainable Cities and Communities
Developing initiatives for social, environmental and economic sustainability
Inspired by Tangaroa we care for our animals by:
Inspired by Tū we save wildlife and wild places by:
Recognition and involvement of the Zoo’s conservation expertise
Effective field partnerships for long term conservation outcomes
Focused investment in conservation innovations
Inspired by Rongo we strengthen community support and action by:
Maintaining lasting partnerships for community support and conservation outcomes
Engaging, message driven experiences to build community environmental action
Integrating Te Ao Māori within the Zoo
Welcome to our wild party!
He whānau kotahi tātou
Wellington Zoo is a fun and exciting place, full of helpful, creative and energetic people! We create a sense of belonging for visitors, staff and stakeholders and we want everyone to join our wild party.
We’re a voice to be heard
Ka rongo te pō, ka rongo te ao
At Wellington Zoo, we’re good at what we do – we’re capable, smart, and we love to share our passion with others and inspire them to join us to create a better future for wildlife.
We punch above our weight
Ehara taku toa i te toa takitahi, ēngari he toa takitini
At Wellington Zoo, we’re ambitious, daring and we’re successful. We like to challenge the status quo by aiming high and trying new things.
We have a strong furry green heart
Me manawanui
We love and care for animals, the environment and each other. We’re here to protect the environment for animals and the future by bringing our community with us. We’re loyal to the cause!