Sophie, Portia and Harper Bennett meet Omaka the Tuatara

Every year we invite our immediate neighbours, including Wellington City Council housing tenants, to visit the Zoo for free after hours.

“It is always fantastic to meet our neighbours and to welcome them to the Zoo to learn about the animals that they live near. People often come in wanting to know which animal makes the sounds that wake them up in the mornings! It’s usually our White Cheeked Gibbons who sing their song every morning” says Chief Executive, Karen Fifield.

“We value our community support and Neighbours' Night is a way we can support our local community, including those who may not otherwise be able to visit the Zoo. It is my favourite event of the year, everyone is happy to be at the Zoo, and our staff and some of our partners volunteer their time to ensure that all of our visitors feel welcome and part of the Zoo’s work.”

This year, neighbours were able to explore all the new areas of the Zoo – including Meet the Locals He Tuku Aroha, our New Zealand experience which includes the Zoo’s new walk through Kea Aviary.

“We had a great evening meeting our neighbours and it was, as always, a fantastic way to start the New Year,” says Karen.

Hárun, Hawakἱἱn, Suwayàa and Raatiya at Neighbours' Night

Zoo staff member Bex Diederichsen introducing a Shingleback Skink to visitors

Crystal and Klaren Howell meet a friendly Tiger

Zoo staff member John Brien offering some honey to some of our visitors