LIONS AND TIGERS AND MEERCATS, OH MY!
09 JULY 2022
Why hello there
Stripey Horses
Auckland Zoo is located next to Western Springs in Auckland, New Zealand. It's home to 135 species and over 1400 animals, including lions, tigers, giraffes, gorillas, chimpanzees, and many others, and it's one of our favourite places to visit in Auckland!
The zoo is also home to a number of conservation programs, including efforts to protect endangered species such as the kiwi, the tuatara, and the takahe. In addition to its animals, the Auckland Zoo also features a number of interactive exhibits and educational programs which is great for kids.
We have been to Auckland Zoo countless times over the last 15 years and we enjoy it every single time we go. It's a beautifully maintained park and the animals all look well cared for and their enclosers are clean and tidy. There's always so much to see and the kids get so excited running from one area to the next and squeeeeeealing at all the animals!
The meercat enclosure is awesome because kids can crawl through tunnels and pop out in plastic bubbles in the middle of their home!
Fun facts about zebras, giraffes, meercats, flamingos and ostriches:
The zoo is also home to a number of conservation programs, including efforts to protect endangered species such as the kiwi, the tuatara, and the takahe. In addition to its animals, the Auckland Zoo also features a number of interactive exhibits and educational programs which is great for kids.
We have been to Auckland Zoo countless times over the last 15 years and we enjoy it every single time we go. It's a beautifully maintained park and the animals all look well cared for and their enclosers are clean and tidy. There's always so much to see and the kids get so excited running from one area to the next and squeeeeeealing at all the animals!
The meercat enclosure is awesome because kids can crawl through tunnels and pop out in plastic bubbles in the middle of their home!
Fun facts about zebras, giraffes, meercats, flamingos and ostriches:
- Zebras are known for their distinctive black and white striped coats, which help them blend in with their surroundings and confuse predators. But let's be real, they're just trying to show off their fashion sense and stand out in the crowd.
- Giraffes are the tallest living land animals on Earth, with some individuals reaching heights of up to 18 feet! But despite their towering stature, they still have a bit of a Napoleon complex and are known to kick butt when they feel threatened.
- Meerkats are known for their cute and cuddly appearance, but they can be fierce predators too. They hunt in packs and are known to take down animals much larger than themselves, like snakes and lizards. So, next time you see a meerkat, remember to give it some respect and maybe a little space.
- Flamingos may look like they're wearing pink leg warmers, but in fact, the pink color comes from the pigments in the algae and crustaceans they eat. So, next time you see a flamingo, remember it's not just a bird, it's a walking, talking, pink-feathered salad!
- Ostriches are the largest birds on earth, and they can run at speeds of up to 45 miles per hour! That's faster than most cars on the highway. So, next time you're feeling sluggish, just remember, an ostrich could be running circles around you.
- Did you know that zebras and giraffes are actually related? They are both part of the same family of animals, known as the Giraffidae. In fact, scientists believe that giraffes evolved from a zebra-like ancestor and just kept growing and growing until they became the giants we know today.
You can't go into the zoo without taking a photo under the elephant first!
Did you know a giraffe's tongue is 40cm long?!
Stripey horses
A Lawn Mower Attached To Your Face
The zoo partners with conservation organizations around the world to protect animals in the wild, it's like a global dating app for endangered species as they believe that conservation is not just a one-man show, it's a team effort.
Their conservation education program educates visitors about the importance of protecting endangered species. One of their main programs is the "Breeding for Survival" program, which focuses on breeding and protecting endangered species such as the tuatara, kiwi, and cheetah.
Auckland Zoo is not just a place where visitors can see animals in captivity, it's also a place where they can learn about conservation efforts, and how they can contribute to it. It's a place where conservation and entertainment meet.
The Asian elephants at Auckland Zoo are packing their trunk and getting ready for a one-way trip to a new country as they tried to breed them at the zoo but apparently, the elephants were not impressed with their romantic ambiance, so they're sending them off to where they can do it naturally.
Asian elephants are the absolute kings (or queens) of the jungle – and no, we're not just talking about size here. These majestic beasts are known for their big brains as well as their big ears and long tusks. And let's not forget their wrinkled skin, because who doesn't love a good elephantine wrinkle?
But seriously, Asian elephants are intelligent and social animals that live in herds led by a bossy female known as the matriarch. And boy, do they have a good memory. They can remember routes to food and water for up to 25 years – talk about a Google Maps for the animal kingdom. Don't let their brains fool you into thinking they're boring – these guys (and gals) know how to have a good time. They've been known to use tools, play with toys, and even paint abstract works of art. Yes, you read that right – elephant finger painting is a thing. Despite their formidable size and strength, Asian elephants are generally gentle creatures with strong bonds to their herd members. So if you ever find yourself in close proximity to one, just remember to give them their space and try not to get stepped on. Trust us, you do not want to be on the receiving end of an elephant stomp!
The white rhino is a majestic creature that stands out for its size and unique appearance. They are the second-largest land animal on earth, and they can weigh up to 2,300 kg! That's like having a small car following you around all the time, but with a horn on its nose. White rhinos have a distinct square-shaped lip, which is used for grazing on grass (it's like having a built-in lawnmower attached to your face). But the white rhino is not just a big and funny looking animal, it's also a bit of a comedian. White rhinos are known for their playful nature, and they have been observed rolling around in the mud, wallowing in shallow pools and even chasing each other around in circles. It's like they're auditioning for a role in a slapstick comedy movie. Unfortunately, the white rhino is an endangered species, mainly due to poaching for its horn. But, conservation efforts are underway to protect these majestic creatures and keep them around for future generations to enjoy.
Their conservation education program educates visitors about the importance of protecting endangered species. One of their main programs is the "Breeding for Survival" program, which focuses on breeding and protecting endangered species such as the tuatara, kiwi, and cheetah.
Auckland Zoo is not just a place where visitors can see animals in captivity, it's also a place where they can learn about conservation efforts, and how they can contribute to it. It's a place where conservation and entertainment meet.
The Asian elephants at Auckland Zoo are packing their trunk and getting ready for a one-way trip to a new country as they tried to breed them at the zoo but apparently, the elephants were not impressed with their romantic ambiance, so they're sending them off to where they can do it naturally.
Asian elephants are the absolute kings (or queens) of the jungle – and no, we're not just talking about size here. These majestic beasts are known for their big brains as well as their big ears and long tusks. And let's not forget their wrinkled skin, because who doesn't love a good elephantine wrinkle?
But seriously, Asian elephants are intelligent and social animals that live in herds led by a bossy female known as the matriarch. And boy, do they have a good memory. They can remember routes to food and water for up to 25 years – talk about a Google Maps for the animal kingdom. Don't let their brains fool you into thinking they're boring – these guys (and gals) know how to have a good time. They've been known to use tools, play with toys, and even paint abstract works of art. Yes, you read that right – elephant finger painting is a thing. Despite their formidable size and strength, Asian elephants are generally gentle creatures with strong bonds to their herd members. So if you ever find yourself in close proximity to one, just remember to give them their space and try not to get stepped on. Trust us, you do not want to be on the receiving end of an elephant stomp!
The white rhino is a majestic creature that stands out for its size and unique appearance. They are the second-largest land animal on earth, and they can weigh up to 2,300 kg! That's like having a small car following you around all the time, but with a horn on its nose. White rhinos have a distinct square-shaped lip, which is used for grazing on grass (it's like having a built-in lawnmower attached to your face). But the white rhino is not just a big and funny looking animal, it's also a bit of a comedian. White rhinos are known for their playful nature, and they have been observed rolling around in the mud, wallowing in shallow pools and even chasing each other around in circles. It's like they're auditioning for a role in a slapstick comedy movie. Unfortunately, the white rhino is an endangered species, mainly due to poaching for its horn. But, conservation efforts are underway to protect these majestic creatures and keep them around for future generations to enjoy.
Southern white rhino
Southern white rhino
I Scream, You Scream, We All Scream For Ice Cream
Shhhhhhh. Too loud.
One of the reasons why we love visiting Auckland Zoo, aside from all the amazing animals, is how much space there is at the park. It means we can go for the whole day and take breaks under trees, let the kids have a play on the playground, eat ice cream anywhere we like and have a picnic right under the ropes the Orangutans swing across on! You never feel cramped at the zoo, no matter how busy it is and I think they have done an awesome job at creating such a fantastic park.
The playground is awesome and has a huuuge dragon to climb on, which is always a hit for the kids! Bella & Sienna's favourite is the long slide that comes out of the dragon's egg.
There is loads along the way to keep the kids entertained - from crawling through tunnels and popping out in a bubble inside the meercat enclosure, to being suuuper quiet in the dark while they spot kiwi.
There is a large area beside the elephant enclosure with tables and chairs to eat lunch or just have a break.
One of the reasons why we love visiting Auckland Zoo, aside from all the amazing animals, is how much space there is at the park. It means we can go for the whole day and take breaks under trees, let the kids have a play on the playground, eat ice cream anywhere we like and have a picnic right under the ropes the Orangutans swing across on! You never feel cramped at the zoo, no matter how busy it is and I think they have done an awesome job at creating such a fantastic park.
The playground is awesome and has a huuuge dragon to climb on, which is always a hit for the kids! Bella & Sienna's favourite is the long slide that comes out of the dragon's egg.
There is loads along the way to keep the kids entertained - from crawling through tunnels and popping out in a bubble inside the meercat enclosure, to being suuuper quiet in the dark while they spot kiwi.
There is a large area beside the elephant enclosure with tables and chairs to eat lunch or just have a break.
Kids playground
Mmmmmm ice cream
The kids will never get bored at Auckland Zoo!
I Like Big (Red) Butts And I Cannot Lie
Auckland Zoo have a family of Hamadryas Baboons and we think they are hilaaarious with their red bums! Hamadryas baboons are a species of baboon found in the Horn of Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. They are known for their distinctive long, silvery-white mane of hair on their head and shoulders. This mane makes them look like they are permanently dressed for a fancy party, like a group of baboon versions of the 'silver foxes' of the animal kingdom.
Baboons have red buttocks because they have a special gland on their buttocks that secretes a red colored oil. This oil is used to mark the baboon's territory and also to attract mates. The red color of the oil is thought to be attractive to other baboons, and it may also serve as a signal to other members of the baboon's group. Some researchers believe that the red color of the oil may also have antibacterial properties, helping to keep the skin healthy and free from infection.
But let's be real – the real reason baboons have red bums is because they're the ultimate pranksters of the animal kingdom. They just love to flash their red behinds at unsuspecting tourists and watch them do a double take. It's their go-to prank, and they never get tired of it.
And if you think that's ridiculous, just wait until you see them use their red bums as makeshift target practice. It's like a game of darts, but with a living, breathing baboon as the dartboard. And don't even get us started on the legendary game of baboon red bum hot potato. It's intense, it's hilarious, and it's not for the faint of heart. So there you have it – it's not just for show, it's for play. Just don't get too close or you might become the butt (pun intended) of their next joke.
Ring-tailed lemurs are a species of primate found only on the island of Madagascar and they are known for their distinctive black and white ringed tail. These lemurs are quite the characters! They are very social animals and are always up for a good time, whether that's lounging in the sun, playing with their friends, or even striking a pose for the camera. Let's be real here, their most impressive talent is their ability to emit a strong and very smelly scent, especially the males, to mark their territory and attract a mate. It's like they're saying "hey baby, come and get a whiff of this!"
Also, they have an interesting grooming ritual, where they spend hours grooming each other's fur, making sure they look their best. It's like they're always at the salon getting ready for a photoshoot.
In short, ring-tailed lemurs are like the wild party animals of the primate world, always ready to have a good time and make sure they look and smell their best.
Squirrel monkeys are a species of small monkey found in Central and South America. They are known for their energetic personalities, quick movements and their cute fluffy appearance. They are quite the chatterboxes, they have a wide range of vocalizations that they use to communicate with each other, from chirps, whistles and screams. It's like they are always having a conversation, sometimes it sounds like they are gossiping about the latest monkey drama.
Squirrel monkeys are also quite acrobatic, they can jump and swing with ease through the trees, it's like they are auditioning for a Cirque du Soleil show.
Baboons have red buttocks because they have a special gland on their buttocks that secretes a red colored oil. This oil is used to mark the baboon's territory and also to attract mates. The red color of the oil is thought to be attractive to other baboons, and it may also serve as a signal to other members of the baboon's group. Some researchers believe that the red color of the oil may also have antibacterial properties, helping to keep the skin healthy and free from infection.
But let's be real – the real reason baboons have red bums is because they're the ultimate pranksters of the animal kingdom. They just love to flash their red behinds at unsuspecting tourists and watch them do a double take. It's their go-to prank, and they never get tired of it.
And if you think that's ridiculous, just wait until you see them use their red bums as makeshift target practice. It's like a game of darts, but with a living, breathing baboon as the dartboard. And don't even get us started on the legendary game of baboon red bum hot potato. It's intense, it's hilarious, and it's not for the faint of heart. So there you have it – it's not just for show, it's for play. Just don't get too close or you might become the butt (pun intended) of their next joke.
Ring-tailed lemurs are a species of primate found only on the island of Madagascar and they are known for their distinctive black and white ringed tail. These lemurs are quite the characters! They are very social animals and are always up for a good time, whether that's lounging in the sun, playing with their friends, or even striking a pose for the camera. Let's be real here, their most impressive talent is their ability to emit a strong and very smelly scent, especially the males, to mark their territory and attract a mate. It's like they're saying "hey baby, come and get a whiff of this!"
Also, they have an interesting grooming ritual, where they spend hours grooming each other's fur, making sure they look their best. It's like they're always at the salon getting ready for a photoshoot.
In short, ring-tailed lemurs are like the wild party animals of the primate world, always ready to have a good time and make sure they look and smell their best.
Squirrel monkeys are a species of small monkey found in Central and South America. They are known for their energetic personalities, quick movements and their cute fluffy appearance. They are quite the chatterboxes, they have a wide range of vocalizations that they use to communicate with each other, from chirps, whistles and screams. It's like they are always having a conversation, sometimes it sounds like they are gossiping about the latest monkey drama.
Squirrel monkeys are also quite acrobatic, they can jump and swing with ease through the trees, it's like they are auditioning for a Cirque du Soleil show.
What's going on here?!
Can you see the angry face in the butt? Hahaha
King Julien, is that you?
Squirrel monkeys
Just a squirrel monkey hitching a ride on a capybara, no big deal
Bornean orangutan catching some zzzz's
Feathery Fun
The bird exhibits at Auckland Zoo will have you squawking with excitement! We love seeing the beautiful birds, native and exotic, up close and I love taking the time to photograph them - so many of them are super cheeky and it's so cute to watch, especially the kea.
Speaking of kea, these intelligent and mischievous birds are native to the alpine regions of New Zealand where they can often be found causing allll sorts of trouble (and looking cute while doing it). We had hoped to see some when we were travelling around the South Island but we haven't had the chance yet. You think we would have seen some on the Kea Point Track in Mt Cook but nope... none, nada, zilch. They have been observed using tools, such as sticks, to probe for food and solve problems. In fact, they're so smart that they've earned the nickname 'the clowns of the mountains'. So if you ever find yourself hiking in the alpine regions of New Zealand and you see a kea, be prepared for some playful antics and maybe even a bit of mischief. Just try not to get your car dismantled in the process....seriously, it happens! And whatever you do, don't leave your sandwiches unattended – those kea have been known to steal food from unsuspecting hikers.
Another star of the show at Auckland Zoo is the kiwi. These national treasures are a must-see for any bird lover and they are active during the day thanks to the dark room they are in. It's a quiet zone and you need to let your eyes adjust when you walk in and if you're lucky enough, you'll see some kiwi scuttling around in their enclosure, which is pretty awesome as it's hard to spot them in the wild! There are places you can see them in the North Island, especially in Northland, such as Trounson Kauri Park and the Waipou Forest where the almighty Tane Mahuta lives.
In short, Auckland Zoo's bird exhibits are a hoot! You'll laugh, learn and maybe even have your hat stolen by a red-tailed black cockatoo, but it's all worth it for the chance to see these feathered wonders up close!
Speaking of kea, these intelligent and mischievous birds are native to the alpine regions of New Zealand where they can often be found causing allll sorts of trouble (and looking cute while doing it). We had hoped to see some when we were travelling around the South Island but we haven't had the chance yet. You think we would have seen some on the Kea Point Track in Mt Cook but nope... none, nada, zilch. They have been observed using tools, such as sticks, to probe for food and solve problems. In fact, they're so smart that they've earned the nickname 'the clowns of the mountains'. So if you ever find yourself hiking in the alpine regions of New Zealand and you see a kea, be prepared for some playful antics and maybe even a bit of mischief. Just try not to get your car dismantled in the process....seriously, it happens! And whatever you do, don't leave your sandwiches unattended – those kea have been known to steal food from unsuspecting hikers.
Another star of the show at Auckland Zoo is the kiwi. These national treasures are a must-see for any bird lover and they are active during the day thanks to the dark room they are in. It's a quiet zone and you need to let your eyes adjust when you walk in and if you're lucky enough, you'll see some kiwi scuttling around in their enclosure, which is pretty awesome as it's hard to spot them in the wild! There are places you can see them in the North Island, especially in Northland, such as Trounson Kauri Park and the Waipou Forest where the almighty Tane Mahuta lives.
In short, Auckland Zoo's bird exhibits are a hoot! You'll laugh, learn and maybe even have your hat stolen by a red-tailed black cockatoo, but it's all worth it for the chance to see these feathered wonders up close!
Red-tailed black cockatoos
Yellow-crested cockatoo
How cute are these ducklings?!
Werk it guuuurl
Kea
How To Outrun An Alligator
The zoo is home to quite a few ecotherms like lace monitors, american aligators, tuatara, weta and more. The girls especially loved the leopard tortoise as they were always basking under their sunlamps at ground level, so they get a good look at them eating veeeeery slowly and walking eeeeveeeen slooooweeeer. They are the 4th largest species of tortoise in the world and ahead of them is the incredible galapagos tortoise which we always find so fascinating to watch, because of its size.
The American alligators at the zoo are often seen poking their heads out of the water, eyeing up their next victim... luckily there's a fence, huh? Did you know American alligators can hold their breath underwater for up to an hour, but they're not very good at holding their liquor. They're great swimmers, but they're not very fast on land. So if you ever need to outrun one, just make sure you're on solid ground. They're carnivores, but they're also opportunistic feeders. So if you're ever lost in the swamp and you're down to your last granola bar, just remember that alligators will eat anything... even granola.
The American alligators at the zoo are often seen poking their heads out of the water, eyeing up their next victim... luckily there's a fence, huh? Did you know American alligators can hold their breath underwater for up to an hour, but they're not very good at holding their liquor. They're great swimmers, but they're not very fast on land. So if you ever need to outrun one, just make sure you're on solid ground. They're carnivores, but they're also opportunistic feeders. So if you're ever lost in the swamp and you're down to your last granola bar, just remember that alligators will eat anything... even granola.
Leopard tortoise
Leopard tortoise
Hmmm he's not the best at playing hide and seek is he?
American alligator
The Cutest Tiger In The Zoo
Oh boy, where to start with these two majestic beasts? Lions and tigers are two of the most iconic and beloved animals in the world, and for good reason. They are majestic, powerful, and let's be real, pretty darn cool. But let's not forget that these two species also have a bit of a rivalry going on. You know, the whole 'king of the jungle' versus 'king of the forest' thing. It's like a never-ending battle for supremacy, and it's honestly a little exhausting just thinking about it. Despite their ongoing rivalry, lions and tigers do have a few things in common. For one, they are both apex predators and are at the top of their respective food chains. They are also both known for their powerful roars, which can be heard from miles away (although some might argue that the lion's roar is just a little bit more majestic).
Another of the majestic beasts we love to see at Auckland Zoo are the Sumatran tigers, although they are often hiding so we don't see them too often but when we do, it's a pretty cool experience! Did you know Sumatran tigers are the smallest subspecies of tigers and are often called "pocket tigers" because they can fit in your pocket... if you have really big pockets. They're carnivores and they love to eat large animals like deer and wild pigs. So if you're ever lost in the jungle and you come across a Sumatran tiger, just remember that you're not on the menu... unless you happen to be a deer or wild pig... on second thought, you probably are on the menu. Sumatran tigers are an endangered species, with only around 400 individuals left in the wild. So if you ever come across one, consider yourself lucky and take a picture, but please don't try to keep it as a pet.
Arabella had a 5th birthday party for one of her BFFs at the zoo one year and we think she was DEFINITELY the cutest tiger in the zoo!
Another of the majestic beasts we love to see at Auckland Zoo are the Sumatran tigers, although they are often hiding so we don't see them too often but when we do, it's a pretty cool experience! Did you know Sumatran tigers are the smallest subspecies of tigers and are often called "pocket tigers" because they can fit in your pocket... if you have really big pockets. They're carnivores and they love to eat large animals like deer and wild pigs. So if you're ever lost in the jungle and you come across a Sumatran tiger, just remember that you're not on the menu... unless you happen to be a deer or wild pig... on second thought, you probably are on the menu. Sumatran tigers are an endangered species, with only around 400 individuals left in the wild. So if you ever come across one, consider yourself lucky and take a picture, but please don't try to keep it as a pet.
Arabella had a 5th birthday party for one of her BFFs at the zoo one year and we think she was DEFINITELY the cutest tiger in the zoo!
African lion
I'm positive this is the world's cutest tiger!
Sumatran tiger
Know Before You Go
- You can purchase food and drinks at the zoo
- The parking area can fill up fast, even before opening!
- Opening hours are 9:30am - 5:30pm every day (closed Christmas Day) and last entry is at 4:30pm
- For updated info, hours and pricing click here
- There are plenty of toilets around the zoo
- The zoo has daily talks about various animals in the zoo
- The park is suitable for prams
Mappy McMap Face
Getting There
Address: 100 Motions Road, Western Spring
The zoo is located next to Western Springs which is a beautiful park also worth visiting. There are plenty of parks at the zoo but it can fill up SUPER fast, so there is another carpark down the road from the zoo and some parks on the main road.
The zoo is located next to Western Springs which is a beautiful park also worth visiting. There are plenty of parks at the zoo but it can fill up SUPER fast, so there is another carpark down the road from the zoo and some parks on the main road.
Conclusion
Auckland Zoo is a must-visit destination for animal lovers of all ages. Not only will you get to see the famous red baboon bums up close, but you'll also learn about the zoo's important conservation efforts. And let's be real, even the most easily bored child won't be able to resist the allure of a monkey's rear end!! So pack a lunch, bring your camera and get ready for a wild day out.
Gallery of Auckland Zoo
Check out the rest of the awesomeness that didn't make it to the main blog but deserves to be shown.
More to do in New Zealand
NEW ZEALAND ALPINE LAVENDER FARM
CANTERBURY Discover our amazing week in Wellington, from riding a croc bike in Oriental Bay, to seeing seals along the South Coast Walk.
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WARD BEACH
MARLBOROUGH A beautiful South Island beach filled with treasures, crazy rock formations and Caribbean blue water. |
MT MAUNGANUI SUMMIT WALK
TAURANGA You're rewarded with views across Tauranga and you can see across to the active White Island volcano. Lots of cute sheep on this track!
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