Te Wao Nui Tours

Auckland Zoo is offering in-depth tours of Te Wao Nui at 11am every day of the week. An experienced Zoo Guide will take you on an immersive journey from forest to coast where you’ll learn more about New Zealand’s native animals and plants and their importance in Māori culture.

  • Words by Auckland Zoo
  • Last updated 21 Dec 2024

Take an immersive journey through the stunning habitats of Te Wao Nui inspiring every visitor to be kaitiaki (guardians) of our unique wildlife and wild places. Discover the rare and fascinating animals such as iconic kiwi and tuatara that are found nowhere else in the world. Learn about our native plant species and the importance of them in Māori culture, and the environment. Te Wao Nui offers both locals and tourists a truly unique experience of New Zealand’s animals, plants and culture all in one location at Auckland Zoo.

Encompassing one fifth of the Zoo, Te Wao Nui is home to over 100 native plant species of Aotearoa and around 60 different animal species. From the wild and rugged high country, picturesque alpines, wetlands and coast to dense night forests featuring our kiwi habitat – it’s truly an unforgettable experience.  

What’s included:

  • Your tour will start at the specified meeting point where you will meet your Zoo Guide
  • Your Zoo Guide will take you on an immersive journey through the stunning habitats of Te Wao Nui (the Zoo’s Aotearoa New Zealand track) for approximately 60 minutes
  • Discover NZ native animals and plants and learn about their importance in Māori culture and the environment 
  • Photo opportunities are all the way along the track - remember to bring your phone or small handheld camera
  • All-day Zoo access - make the most of your visit and explore the rest of the Zoo at your leisure
Location Te wāhi
Auckland Zoo Te Whare Kararehe o Tamaki Makaurau
99 Motions Road, Western Springs, Auckland Central
Plan your route
Getting there Te huarahi ki reira

If you’re driving the zoo is just a few minutes' drive from central Auckland. There is plenty of parking available on site. You can take a bus from central Auckland, with several routes stopping right outside the zoo. Alternatively, you can take the Western Line train to Morningside Station, which is about 30 minutes’ walk from the zoo.

Local tip He tīwhiri mō te rohe

Go early to avoid the crowd.

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