Auckland Zoo Future Development of Auckland Zoo (Speculation)

[Causticjay]

It is really nice to hear Auckland Zoo may not phase out the servals, I absolutely love the species! It's a shame about the cheetahs though, they're such a beautiful and iconic species, although I suppose if the keep the serval that's a decent compromise.

 

[Zoofan15]

It is really nice to hear Auckland Zoo may not phase out the servals, I absolutely love the species! It's a shame about the cheetahs though, they're such a beautiful and iconic species, although I suppose if the keep the serval that's a decent compromise.

Auckland Zoo’s Cheetah have been very popular with the public. Anubis and Osiris were imported in 2006 and were the first Cheetah held at Auckland Zoo since they briefly held them in the 1920’s. Throughout the 20th century, Bengal tiger, Indian leopard, Jaguar and Puma came and went; as well as numerous species of bear, so they were a welcome addition. Their successors, Qia and Quartz haven’t quite achieved the same engagement by virtue of public contact ceasing due to health and safety reasons; but have been popular nonetheless.

Auckland Zoo’s exhibit isn’t large; and the public perception of these cats is that of a species that can sprint at speeds up to 20km/hr, something they definitely can’t attain in the current exhibit. It’s been long established breeding is more successful at open range zoos and from a welfare perspective, I agree Auckland would be making the right decision in phasing them out.

It’d be nice to see Auckland Zoo hold a larger number of Serval (at least 1.2) and breed. They could divide the Cheetah exhibit into two and build a second Serval exhibit on one side; a Caracal exhibit on the other. The two species were held side by side at Wellington without issue. Alternatively, they could build two Caracal exhibits and consider breeding both them and Serval; thought with Hamilton Zoo planning to import a female Caracal, it might be desirable for Auckland Zoo to function as a non-breeding holder were they to acquire them.

 

[ApeLadyNZ]

Serval:

I’m a huge fan of small felids in zoos. Temminck’s golden cat are a huge loss to the region in my opinion and it’d be a shame to see Auckland Zoo lose Serval as well.

Auckland Zoo first held Serval in 1983, with a pair imported from Taronga Zoo. The species was still at the zoo in 1992 (mentioned in A Tiger by the Tail) and it’d be interesting to know if they survived up until the the arrival of Izazi and Mazimba as kittens in 1997, as that would mean the zoo has held Serval continuously for 41 years!

The breeding male Indlozi was then imported from Germany in 2001 and Mazimba gave birth to Sika in 2002, who was celebrated as the birth in Australasia in five years and the first surviving kitten born at Auckland Zoo.

My memories of the old Serval cages are vague due to my young age; but there was a minimum of two interconnected cages (there may have been a third).

Shai was imported from South Africa in 2003 and produced triplets in 2004, which were the second surviving litter born at Auckland Zoo to date.

I remember the arrival of Izazi and Mazimba in the late '90s, and I think there were indeed two interconnecting cages. If I remember correctly, one of the previous pair, a female who I believe was called Belinda, was still alive at the time of their arrival.

Hopefully Auckland will decide not to phase out serval after all or consider another felid species if they decide to do so.

 

[Zoofan15]

I remember the arrival of Izazi and Mazimba in the late '90s, and I think there were indeed two interconnecting cages. If I remember correctly, one of the previous pair, a female who I believe was called Belinda, was still alive at the time of their arrival.

Hopefully Auckland will decide not to phase out serval after all or consider another felid species if they decide to do so.

Serval history:

I have her name down as Selinda, so that’s obviously the female you were referring to; as no others, aside from her mate who was imported with her in 1983, were imported prior to the arrival of Izazi and Mazimba in 1997.

The Zoo (2000) book referred to the zoo having three Serval, but only mentioned Izazi by name. Thanks to your information, we now know Selinda was the third. Due to her age, we can assume she passed away circa 2000, with Indozi imported the following year.

My assumption is the elderly Selinda lived in one cage; with Izazi and Mazimba in the other.

The Zoo TV series covered the introduction of Indlozi to one of the females where they each occupied an exhibit and an interconnecting slide was then opened. I wondered if there was a third cage as when Mazimba gave birth to Sika in 2002, they lived separately from Indlozi and Izazi (who may or may not have been fully integrated at that stage); but the third space may have taken the form of a den.

The intention was to breed Indlozi and Izazi after Mazimba gave birth in 2002, but this didn’t eventuate until 2009. In the interim, Shai was imported from South Africa and bred with Indlozi to produce triplets.

For those who don’t know, the zoo’s previous male Serval, Moholo (now deceased), was the son of Sika. Moholo was born 2005 at Mogo Zoo.

 

[ApeLadyNZ]

Serval history:

I have her name down as Selinda, so that’s obviously the female you were referring to; as no others, aside from her mate who was imported with her in 1983, were imported prior to the arrival of Izazi and Mazimba in 1997.

The Zoo (2000) book referred to the zoo having three Serval, but only mentioned Izazi by name. Thanks to your information, we now know Selinda was the third. Due to her age, we can assume she passed away circa 2000, with Indozi imported the following year.

My assumption is the elderly Selinda lived in one cage; with Izazi and Mazimba in the other.

The Zoo TV series covered the introduction of Indlozi to one of the females where they each occupied an exhibit and an interconnecting slide was then opened. I wondered if there was a third cage as when Mazimba gave birth to Sika in 2002, they lived separately from Indlozi and Izazi (who may or may not have been fully integrated at that stage); but the third space may have taken the form of a den.

The intention was to breed Indlozi and Izazi after Mazimba gave birth in 2002, but this didn’t eventuate until 2009. In the interim, Shai was imported from South Africa and bred with Indlozi to produce triplets.

For those who don’t know, the zoo’s previous male Serval, Moholo (now deceased), was the son of Sika. Moholo was born 2005 at Mogo Zoo.

Thanks for this! Yes, Selinda would have been the other one (I remember seeing her name misspelled on some zoo newsletter or some other such literature as Belinda, so that's why I thought that was her name). She was indeed kept separately from Izazi and Mazimba and would indeed have likely passed around the time you mentioned as she was of quite an advanced age.

I don't remember the name of Selinda's mate, knowing only that he passed away shortly before the arrival of the two younger serval.

 

[Zoofan15]

Yes - I fully concur about the penguins' aversion to the pool, possibly because several of them appear to be missing flippers and would find swimming very challenging. The only penguin I have seen using the pool on a semi-regular basis is, I believe, the latest juvenile, Tamaroa, and even he doesn't seem to be in the water as much as one would expect from a penguin!

Wellington Zoo has a thriving little blue penguin colony, and I think they could quite comfortably accommodate Auckland's group should the zoo, in fact, decide to phase them out.

I sincerely hope it is Auckland's intention to retain the baboons, going forward. Primate species are always popular exhibits, and they are, as I've mentioned, currently the only African primate species. Hopefully, with Jabari being a little older, the zoo might decide to take one of the two young females - Zala or Mali - off contraception.

Primate Species at Auckland Zoo

Auckland Zoo also has Ring-tailed lemur re. African primates, but I agree it’s a limited representation of two species compared to other zoos in the region.

For interest sake, here’s Auckland Zoo’s primate species in 2002 versus 2024:

2002:

Bornean orangutan
Hybrid orangutan
Common chimpanzee
Chacma baboon
Pig-tailed macaque
Bonnet macaque
Black-handed spider monkey
Ring-tailed lemur
Golden lion tamarin
Cotton-top tamarin

2024:

Bornean orangutan
Hamadryas baboon
Black-handed spider monkey
Ring-tailed lemur
Bolivian squirrel monkey
Golden lion tamarin
Emperor tamarin
Cotton-top tamarin

As I’ve detailed in previous posts, I’d consider the Bornean orangutans a top tier species that actively attract people to visit the zoo; while the baboons are the only second tier species in that list (that greatly enhance the visitor experience once the visitor is there). Every other primate species is comparatively incidental and would likely go unnoticed by the average visitor were they to be phased out.

I will note the inclusion of Hybrid orangutan as an additional species to Bornean orangutan is negligible from a visitor perspective (the vast majority would have neither known or cared Wanita was a hybrid); but the size of the colony in 2002 was undoubtably a drawcard: 2.5 adults and 1.0 adolescent. I remember as a child seeing the exhibit a hive of activity that only now is beginning to gain traction with the development of Bahmi and the arrival/integration of Daya. Infants from both Melur and Daya in the future would take it to the next level.

 

[ApeLadyNZ]

Primate Species at Auckland Zoo

Auckland Zoo also has Ring-tailed lemur re. African primates, but I agree it’s a limited representation of two species compared to other zoos in the region.

For interest sake, here’s Auckland Zoo’s primate species in 2002 versus 2024:

2002:

Bornean orangutan
Hybrid orangutan
Common chimpanzee
Chacma baboon
Pig-tailed macaque
Bonnet macaque
Black-handed spider monkey
Ring-tailed lemur
Golden lion tamarin
Cotton-top tamarin

2024:

Bornean orangutan
Hamadryas baboon
Black-handed spider monkey
Ring-tailed lemur
Bolivian squirrel monkey
Golden lion tamarin
Emperor tamarin
Cotton-top tamarin

As I’ve detailed in previous posts, I’d consider the Bornean orangutans a top tier species that actively attract people to visit the zoo; while the baboons are the only second tier species in that list (that greatly enhance the visitor experience once the visitor is there). Every other primate species is comparatively incidental and would likely go unnoticed by the average visitor were they to be phased out.

I will note the inclusion of Hybrid orangutan as an additional species to Bornean orangutan is negligible from a visitor perspective (the vast majority would have neither known or cared Wanita was a hybrid); but the size of the colony in 2002 was undoubtably a drawcard: 2.5 adults and 1.0 adolescent. I remember as a child seeing the exhibit a hive of activity that only now is beginning to gain traction with the development of Bahmi and the arrival/integration of Daya. Infants from both Melur and Daya in the future would take it to the next level.

Thanks for reminding me about the lemurs! I realize I overlooked them now, probably because they're not part of the safari track, but they are indeed African primates! They are, sadly, another species I would personally recommend for phasing out. They are down to three elderly females now, and other zoos have thriving ring-tail colonies. Perhaps Auckland would do better to hold red ruffed lemurs instead?

I agree with your assessment of Auckland's current primate collection. The Bornean orangutans are indeed one of the most popular exhibits, as is often the case with great apes. Smaller primate species do tend to get overlooked at Auckland Zoo = perhaps because most of them are in the South America precinct where viewing conditions are less than optimal. I believe that entire area is in need of a thorough overhaul!

I too look forward to future orangutan infants. With Daya still being so young, and Charlie still showing a marked preference for Melur, I think it may be Melur who will be allowed to breed again before they start with Daya. That will allow both Daya and Bahmi to observe an infant's growth!

I do remember the old orangutan colony, but the memories are a bit hazy now. The ones I have the strongest memory of are Indra, who frequently sat near the window with her infant (Isim) and the young Madju, renowned for his playful antics, much like Bahmi is today!

 

[E.J]

Discussion about Auckland Zoo and their development plans and upgrades, in the next decade

Australian Walk-About Exhibit, Upgrades

After almost a decade Auckland Zoo is housing Kangaroos again, although Auckland Zoo last Kangaroo was a female Red Kangaroo and now they'll be housing a mob of Eastern Grey Kangaroos, alongside the Emus and Red-Necked Wallabies.

The new lizard enclosure also looks amazing, housing Cunningham's Skinks and Frilled-Neck Lizards, a fantastic new era as this will be very first time this species has come to New Zealand. The images of the Enclosure on the website appear to replicate the dense Australian bush and is similar in design to Wellington Zoos Lace Monitor Exhibit.
Frilled-Neck Lizards climb high in the trees and the Cunningham's Skinks explore the ground, it looks truely amazing and am looking forward to seeing it in person next year

 

[Zoofan15]

Auckland Zoo - Future Developments

Facts:

I asked a number of staff about future developments on my visit this weekend and was advised of the following:

The zoo have decided to phase out Serval. The death of their male leaves them with an elderly female (Shani), who is also the last Serval in New Zealand. Shani will be accommodated at Auckland Zoo for the rest of her life; and if there’s the need to demolish her exhibit prior to her death, then she will be accommodated elsewhere in the zoo (probably off display).

The zoo are planning to phase out pinnipeds and penguins.

The zoo have no plans to phase out baboons in the immediate future.

The zoo are planning to phase out cheetah.

The plan is still for Southern white rhinoceros to inhabit the Asian elephant exhibit, with a redevelopment due to occur sometime after the dinosaur exhibition wraps up in October 2025.

Discussion/speculation:

The decision to phase out Serval is a reversal of what I was told in November; though since then the male Serval has died and the keeper I spoke to this weekend stressed that plans can change.

I asked the obvious question of the location of the playground, but each staff member I spoke to only had knowledge of their area; however the above information (combined with the map below for reference) provides a clear picture. It there appears the playground will at a minimum be built on the site of the following exhibits:

Pinnipeds
Penguins
Serval

It’s easy to see how the playground could continue on to incorporate the Hamadryas baboon and Cheetah exhibits. Let’s hope it stops at serval (which quite frankly is bad enough, being the third exhibit that will be wiped out for this playground).

The keeper I spoke to seemed sure the baboons weren’t going anywhere; but it was difficult to interpret whether she was meaning there’s not plans to export them in the coming year (versus a long term plan to phase them out). That’s why I state above there’s no plans to phase out baboon in the immediate future. The baboon troop at Auckland Zoo numbers 3.6 adult baboons and 1.0 adolescent and is a well settled troop with a healthy gender ratio. The current exhibit is more than spacious for this group size and with a significant redevelopment (or the installation of overhead tunnels), they could even expand into the Cheetah exhibit.

Orana Wildlife Park advised on my visit in June 2024 that there had been discussion of Auckland’s Cheetah being transferred there). It’s unclear whether the Cheetah (in their senior years) will live out their life at Auckland Zoo; or transfer to Orana, once their current situation has been resolved.

Consequently, plans for the Cheetah exhibit are unclear:

Should the Hamadryas baboon exhibit be demolished for the playground, it would seem likely the Cheetah exhibit would follow suit.

Should the Hamadryas baboon exhibit remain as is, then the Cheetah exhibit could either be renovated for a new species like Caracal; or become an extension to either the Greater flamingo exhibit or Southern white rhinoceros paddock.

 

[ApeLadyNZ]

Auckland Zoo - Future Developments

Facts:

I asked a number of staff about future developments on my visit this weekend and was advised of the following:

The zoo have decided to phase out Serval. The death of their male leaves them with an elderly female (Shani), who is also the last Serval in New Zealand. Shani will be accommodated at Auckland Zoo for the rest of her life; and if there’s the need to demolish her exhibit prior to her death, then she will be accommodated elsewhere in the zoo (probably off display).

The zoo are planning to phase out pinnipeds and penguins.

The zoo have no plans to phase out baboons in the immediate future.

The zoo are planning to phase out cheetah.

The plan is still for Southern white rhinoceros to inhabit the Asian elephant exhibit, with a redevelopment due to occur sometime after the dinosaur exhibition wraps up in October 2025.

Discussion/speculation:

The decision to phase out Serval is a reversal of what I was told in November; though since then the male Serval has died and the keeper I spoke to this weekend stressed that plans can change.

I asked the obvious question of the location of the playground, but each staff member I spoke to only had knowledge of their area; however the above information (combined with the map below for reference) provides a clear picture. It there appears the playground will at a minimum be built on the site of the following exhibits:

Pinnipeds
Penguins
Serval

It’s easy to see how the playground could continue on to incorporate the Hamadryas baboon and Cheetah exhibits. Let’s hope it stops at serval (which quite frankly is bad enough, being the third exhibit that will be wiped out for this playground).

The keeper I spoke to seemed sure the baboons weren’t going anywhere; but it was difficult to interpret whether she was meaning there’s not plans to export them in the coming year (versus a long term plan to phase them out). That’s why I state above there’s no plans to phase out baboon in the immediate future. The baboon troop at Auckland Zoo numbers 3.6 adult baboons and 1.0 adolescent and is a well settled troop with a healthy gender ratio. The current exhibit is more than spacious for this group size and with a significant redevelopment (or the installation of overhead tunnels), they could even expand into the Cheetah exhibit.

Orana Wildlife Park advised on my visit in June 2024 that there had been discussion of Auckland’s Cheetah being transferred there). It’s unclear whether the Cheetah (in their senior years) will live out their life at Auckland Zoo; or transfer to Orana, once their current situation has been resolved.

Consequently, plans for the Cheetah exhibit are unclear:

Should the Hamadryas baboon exhibit be demolished for the playground, it would seem likely the Cheetah exhibit would follow suit.

Should the Hamadryas baboon exhibit remain as is, then the Cheetah exhibit could either be renovated for a new species like Caracal; or become an extension to either the Greater flamingo exhibit or Southern white rhinoceros paddock.

View attachment 772176

Thanks for the updates. It's disappointing to think that so many animal exhibits will be phased out in favour of a playground that, in my opinion, the zoo doesn't really need. I do see the sense in phasing out the little blue penguins, however - despite how cute they are, they add little to the zoo's collection and can easily be relocated to another zoo.

I am hopeful that Auckland Zoo might reconsider the planned phase-out of the baboons, since they are the only primates on the African safari track and the only breeding group of African primates at Auckland Zoo. Perhaps the seeming renewed interest in the species from Australian zoos might influence Auckland to retain their baboons?

 

[Jambo]

Auckland Zoo - Future Developments

Facts:

I asked a number of staff about future developments on my visit this weekend and was advised of the following:

The zoo have decided to phase out Serval. The death of their male leaves them with an elderly female (Shani), who is also the last Serval in New Zealand. Shani will be accommodated at Auckland Zoo for the rest of her life; and if there’s the need to demolish her exhibit prior to her death, then she will be accommodated elsewhere in the zoo (probably off display).

The zoo are planning to phase out pinnipeds and penguins.

The zoo have no plans to phase out baboons in the immediate future.

The zoo are planning to phase out cheetah.

The plan is still for Southern white rhinoceros to inhabit the Asian elephant exhibit, with a redevelopment due to occur sometime after the dinosaur exhibition wraps up in October 2025.

Discussion/speculation:

The decision to phase out Serval is a reversal of what I was told in November; though since then the male Serval has died and the keeper I spoke to this weekend stressed that plans can change.

I asked the obvious question of the location of the playground, but each staff member I spoke to only had knowledge of their area; however the above information (combined with the map below for reference) provides a clear picture. It there appears the playground will at a minimum be built on the site of the following exhibits:

Pinnipeds
Penguins
Serval

It’s easy to see how the playground could continue on to incorporate the Hamadryas baboon and Cheetah exhibits. Let’s hope it stops at serval (which quite frankly is bad enough, being the third exhibit that will be wiped out for this playground).

The keeper I spoke to seemed sure the baboons weren’t going anywhere; but it was difficult to interpret whether she was meaning there’s not plans to export them in the coming year (versus a long term plan to phase them out). That’s why I state above there’s no plans to phase out baboon in the immediate future. The baboon troop at Auckland Zoo numbers 3.6 adult baboons and 1.0 adolescent and is a well settled troop with a healthy gender ratio. The current exhibit is more than spacious for this group size and with a significant redevelopment (or the installation of overhead tunnels), they could even expand into the Cheetah exhibit.

Orana Wildlife Park advised on my visit in June 2024 that there had been discussion of Auckland’s Cheetah being transferred there). It’s unclear whether the Cheetah (in their senior years) will live out their life at Auckland Zoo; or transfer to Orana, once their current situation has been resolved.

Consequently, plans for the Cheetah exhibit are unclear:

Should the Hamadryas baboon exhibit be demolished for the playground, it would seem likely the Cheetah exhibit would follow suit.

Should the Hamadryas baboon exhibit remain as is, then the Cheetah exhibit could either be renovated for a new species like Caracal; or become an extension to either the Greater flamingo exhibit or Southern white rhinoceros paddock.

View attachment 772176

The new playground area is absolutely not needed at all. The only way something like this (on this scale) could be justified is if it incorporated animals. San Diego Zoo did this really well with their renovated childrens zoo; implementing a magnificent blend of animals exhibits with interactive childrens play areas and education.

Furthermore, they already have the playground at the front of the zoo which is by far the biggest playground I've seen in a zoo that I've visited. There's no need to build another!! That playground is of optimal location in the zoo as well. On that note, it was disappointing to see the farmhouse area adjacent effectively empty. I think it used to serve a great purpose and perhaps could now be done up to create a mini education area with small species (like the juvenile Giant Tortoises in the former Kune Kune exhibit) and a reptile/amphibian/insect themed building inside the old farmhouse.

Phasing out the penguins and seals makes sense in my eyes. The seal exhibit isn't the biggest and Auckland have little need for them. Same goes for the Little Penguins; who could easily be sent down to Wellington to join their colony. If they elected to build another playground here I wouldn't be overly dissapointed.

However! If they intend to expand this so called playground into the African Savannah trail that is where the line should be drawn. The African Savannah trail is an iconic trail that I feel is of great length. If we end up phasing out baboons, servals and cheetahs that's effectively the whole top of the trail now gone (including the elephants, and even the hippos too). That would leave the trail jarringly empty; with Giraffes, Zebra, Ostrich, Meerkats, Crested Porcupine, Lovebirds, Nyala, Lions, Flamingos and Rhinos. A relatively unimpressive collection for Auckland.

`If they intend to phase out the aforementioned species than it would be preferable they at least replace one or two of the species with new species. For example, the Crested Porcupines could move up to the Serval enclosure and this would give the Meerkat colony more space for future breeding. Preferably, the baboons would be retained, but if not, why not look to acquiring another smaller species of primate like B+W Colobus.

One thing I would appreciate seeing is a Flamingo expansion and perhaps the current Cheetah exhibit is the perfect location for this.

 

[Zoofan15]

The new playground area is absolutely not needed at all. The only way something like this (on this scale) could be justified is if it incorporated animals. San Diego Zoo did this really well with their renovated childrens zoo; implementing a magnificent blend of animals exhibits with interactive childrens play areas and education.

Furthermore, they already have the playground at the front of the zoo which is by far the biggest playground I've seen in a zoo that I've visited. There's no need to build another!! That playground is of optimal location in the zoo as well. On that note, it was disappointing to see the farmhouse area adjacent effectively empty. I think it used to serve a great purpose and perhaps could now be done up to create a mini education area with small species (like the juvenile Giant Tortoises in the former Kune Kune exhibit) and a reptile/amphibian/insect themed building inside the old farmhouse.

Phasing out the penguins and seals makes sense in my eyes. The seal exhibit isn't the biggest and Auckland have little need for them. Same goes for the Little Penguins; who could easily be sent down to Wellington to join their colony. If they elected to build another playground here I wouldn't be overly dissapointed.

However! If they intend to expand this so called playground into the African Savannah trail that is where the line should be drawn. The African Savannah trail is an iconic trail that I feel is of great length. If we end up phasing out baboons, servals and cheetahs that's effectively the whole top of the trail now gone (including the elephants, and even the hippos too). That would leave the trail jarringly empty; with Giraffes, Zebra, Ostrich, Meerkats, Crested Porcupine, Lovebirds, Nyala, Lions, Flamingos and Rhinos. A relatively unimpressive collection for Auckland.

`If they intend to phase out the aforementioned species than it would be preferable they at least replace one or two of the species with new species. For example, the Crested Porcupines could move up to the Serval enclosure and this would give the Meerkat colony more space for future breeding. Preferably, the baboons would be retained, but if not, why not look to acquiring another smaller species of primate like B+W Colobus.

One thing I would appreciate seeing is a Flamingo expansion and perhaps the current Cheetah exhibit is the perfect location for this.

Auckland Zoo’s existing playgrounds (there’s also Western Springs right next door) are certainly sufficient for a zoo Auckland’s size. Having the slide etc adjacent to the cafe is ideal as parents can have something to eat while their kids play; and if you head for the African precinct first (which most people do), it’s in the centre of the zoo and marks the half way point of the trip around the zoo. I can tell you any parent will value this - the playgrounds coming up; you do the playground; and then it’s done/you move on. At Hamilton Zoo, it’s at the entrance, so anyone with kids had to do it twice - when you arrive and when you leave; with some kids preoccupied about getting back to the playground the whole trip around the zoo.

The masterplan indicated plans for a flamingo aviary and while that’s long been canned, this was before breeding took off - with the first surviving chick hatching in 2014. With the number of chicks produced now, a large exhibit is inevitable assuming they have no plans to transfer out some of the flamingos to Orana etc. within the next decade. The redevelopment of the flamingo exhibit suggests no changes are imminent however. It’s had the desired effect of enhancing breeding and the flamingos are making greater use of the exhibit’s footprint (especially the water).

As I understood it, the Serval exhibit is definitely going as the keeper said if Shani’s exhibit is needed for redevelopment prior to her passing, she’d be accommodated elsewhere in the zoo. They have numerous off display exhibits used to house everything from felids to meerkats over the years, so that shouldn’t be an issue. It’ll be a shame to see this species phased out of New Zealand zoos, though Shani is the most elusive Serval I’ve (not) seen at any zoo.

I agree the penguins are not great loss to the zoo. Auckland’s flock are particularly unengaging as even the captive bred chick avoids the water at all costs. I’ve visited numerous zoos where the same species is never out the water. I would have liked to have seen pinnipeds retained in some capacity (the California sea lions were even better than the fur seals); but acknowledge the exhibit is at the end of its lifespan and the zoo need to consider more cost effective options. I remain disappointed that train of thought led them to a playground however!

Thanks for the updates. It's disappointing to think that so many animal exhibits will be phased out in favour of a playground that, in my opinion, the zoo doesn't really need. I do see the sense in phasing out the little blue penguins, however - cute as they are, they add little to the zoo's collection and can easily be relocated to another zoo.

I am hopeful that Auckland Zoo might reconsider the planned phase-out of the baboons, since they are the only primates on the African safari track and the only breeding group of African primates at Auckland Zoo. Perhaps the seeming renewed interest in the species from Australian zoos might influence Auckland to retain their baboons?

It’s such a hard one to call with the baboons as zoos like Taronga, Wellington and Perth have phased baboons out; and Adelaide are set to follow (relocating their troop to a larger exhibit at Monarto). It’s recognised that it’s important from a welfare perspective to hold them in large, regularly breeding troops; though I honestly believe that a troop Auckland’s size is sufficient and they give every appearance of a stimulated and cohesive troop. Regular breeding has been achieved with a total of eight offspring born over 13 years between 2009 and 2022. With the exception of Mali (ironically the mother of the youngest two baboons), every female in the troop has witnessed the raising of young.

I fully agree with you regarding the playground. And I say that as a parent - more specifically a parent who likes to take his kids to a zoo to see zoo animals; and a playground to see play equipment.

 

[ApeLadyNZ]

Auckland Zoo’s existing playgrounds (there’s also Western Springs right next door) are certainly sufficient for a zoo Auckland’s size. Having the slide etc adjacent to the cafe is ideal as parents can have something to eat while their kids play; and if you head for the African precinct first (which most people do), it’s in the centre of the zoo and marks the half way point of the trip around the zoo. I can tell you any parent will value this - the playgrounds coming up; you do the playground; and then it’s done/you move on. At Hamilton Zoo, it’s at the entrance, so anyone with kids had to do it twice - when you arrive and when you leave; with some kids preoccupied about getting back to the playground the whole trip around the zoo.

The masterplan indicated plans for a flamingo aviary and while that’s long been canned, this was before breeding took off - with the first surviving chick hatching in 2014. With the number of chicks produced now, a large exhibit is inevitable assuming they have no plans to transfer out some of the flamingos to Orana etc. within the next decade. The redevelopment of the flamingo exhibit suggests no changes are imminent however. It’s had the desired effect of enhancing breeding and the flamingos are making greater use of the exhibit’s footprint (especially the water).

As I understood it, the Serval exhibit is definitely going as the keeper said if Shani’s exhibit is needed for redevelopment prior to her passing, she’d be accommodated elsewhere in the zoo. They have numerous off display exhibits used to house everything from felids to meerkats over the years, so that shouldn’t be an issue. It’ll be a shame to see this species phased out of New Zealand zoos, though Shani is the most elusive Serval I’ve (not) seen at any zoo.

I agree the penguins are not great loss to the zoo. Auckland’s flock are particularly unengaging as even the captive bred chick avoids the water at all costs. I’ve visited numerous zoos where the same species is never out the water. I would have liked to have seen pinnipeds retained in some capacity (the California sea lions were even better than the fur seals); but acknowledge the exhibit is at the end of its lifespan and the zoo need to consider more cost effective options. I remain disappointed that train of thought led them to a playground however!


It’s such a hard one to call with the baboons as zoos like Taronga, Wellington and Perth have phased baboons out; and Adelaide are set to follow (relocating their troop to a larger exhibit at Monarto). It’s recognised that it’s important from a welfare perspective to hold them in large, regularly breeding troops; though I honestly believe that a troop Auckland’s size is sufficient and they give every appearance of a stimulated and cohesive troop. Regular breeding has been achieved with a total of eight offspring born over 13 years between 2009 and 2022. With the exception of Mali (ironically the mother of the youngest two baboons), every female in the troop has witnessed the raising of young.

I fully agree with you regarding the playground. And I say that as a parent - more specifically a parent who likes to take his kids to a zoo to see zoo animals; and a playground to see play equipment.

@Jambo and @Zoofan15 - my mind boggles at why the zoo decided they needed another playground after having some well-developed play areas at the zoo already, not to mention Western Springs Park which already seems to fit the "nature playground" theme Auckland Zoo seems to want to go for. I'm in full agreement that zoos are for zoo animals and there are plenty of species that are easily obtainable and would fit well into the current spaces.

 

[Jambo]

my mind boggles at why the zoo decided they needed another playground after having some well-developed play areas at the zoo already, not to mention Western Springs Park which already seems to fit the "nature playground" theme Auckland Zoo seems to want to go for. I'm in full agreement that zoos are for zoo animals and there are plenty of species that are easily obtainable and would fit well into the current spaces.

For conversative purposes, I thought I'd outline what this 'Nature Playground' will entail;

Our ambition is to move away from a traditional playground, to provide a play space where all ages and abilities connect, explore, and draw from the natural world.

We want Auckland Zoos nature play space to be an inclusive and accessible, interactive outdoor space for people of all ages and abilities to connect in nature through play.

By creating a nature play space, we are seeking to deliver on the underlying principles that being more connected to nature enhances our visitors’ and communities’ wellbeing (social, physical, mental, and spiritual), and nurtures those life-long connections with nature that help to grow a love and care for wildlife and wild places.

Our nature play space will have a look and feel distinctly of Aotearoa New Zealand by celebrating and weaving in our country’s unique natural taonga, culture, and stories.

Via their website: Nature Play | Auckland Zoo

Overall, doesn't sound the most appealing imo. It's also a shame that the zoo will be dedicating a huge chunk of money to a naturistic playground. It seems more and more zoos these days are beginning to lean towards education. Which isn't a bad thing unless it takes away from the actual purpose of a zoo - which is to see animals, arguably the most effective form of education.

They plan to share a preliminary design soon, so hopefully things may appear more appealing than they seem now. Construction is planned for 2026 so I think we should get a fair idea this year as to which spaces they plan to utilise for this new development.

 

[ApeLadyNZ]

For conversative purposes, I thought I'd outline what this 'Nature Playground' will entail;

Our ambition is to move away from a traditional playground, to provide a play space where all ages and abilities connect, explore, and draw from the natural world.

We want Auckland Zoos nature play space to be an inclusive and accessible, interactive outdoor space for people of all ages and abilities to connect in nature through play.

By creating a nature play space, we are seeking to deliver on the underlying principles that being more connected to nature enhances our visitors’ and communities’ wellbeing (social, physical, mental, and spiritual), and nurtures those life-long connections with nature that help to grow a love and care for wildlife and wild places.

Our nature play space will have a look and feel distinctly of Aotearoa New Zealand by celebrating and weaving in our country’s unique natural taonga, culture, and stories.

Via their website: Nature Play | Auckland Zoo

Overall, doesn't sound the most appealing imo. It's also a shame that the zoo will be dedicating a huge chunk of money to a naturistic playground. It seems more and more zoos these days are beginning to lean towards education. Which isn't a bad thing unless it takes away from the actual purpose of a zoo - which is to see animals, arguably the most effective form of education.

They plan to share a preliminary design soon, so hopefully things may appear more appealing than they seem now. Construction is planned for 2026 so I think we should get a fair idea this year as to which spaces they plan to utilise for this new development.

I agree - speaking as a regular zoo visitor, it doesn't sound the most appealing of options. Auckland Zoo already has plenty of facilities for both play and education and taking away animal exhibits to add more of these seems not only frustrating and disappointing, but downright unnecessary.

 

[Zoofan15]

For conversative purposes, I thought I'd outline what this 'Nature Playground' will entail;

Our ambition is to move away from a traditional playground, to provide a play space where all ages and abilities connect, explore, and draw from the natural world.

We want Auckland Zoos nature play space to be an inclusive and accessible, interactive outdoor space for people of all ages and abilities to connect in nature through play.

By creating a nature play space, we are seeking to deliver on the underlying principles that being more connected to nature enhances our visitors’ and communities’ wellbeing (social, physical, mental, and spiritual), and nurtures those life-long connections with nature that help to grow a love and care for wildlife and wild places.

Our nature play space will have a look and feel distinctly of Aotearoa New Zealand by celebrating and weaving in our country’s unique natural taonga, culture, and stories.

Via their website: Nature Play | Auckland Zoo

Overall, doesn't sound the most appealing imo. It's also a shame that the zoo will be dedicating a huge chunk of money to a naturistic playground. It seems more and more zoos these days are beginning to lean towards education. Which isn't a bad thing unless it takes away from the actual purpose of a zoo - which is to see animals, arguably the most effective form of education.

They plan to share a preliminary design soon, so hopefully things may appear more appealing than they seem now. Construction is planned for 2026 so I think we should get a fair idea this year as to which spaces they plan to utilise for this new development.

Like many educational initiatives throughout the region’s zoos (Growing Wild at Melbourne Zoo; Tiger Trek at Taronga Zoo), I can see this falling flat. When kids are at somewhere as overstimulating as a zoo, they couldn’t care less about being educated and aren’t go to take the time to engage with a fraction of the stuff on offer.

Primarily I’m expecting the outcome to be a large green space where the main function will be to serve as picnic lawn (similar to what they have at Melbourne Zoo near the rail gate entrance). They’ll probably be a handful of water based stations, where kids can redirect the water flow along various pipes (this has been popular at park in Hamilton, where 15 years ago, it was touted as revolutionary and innovative); as well as huts, tunnels etc. About a decade or so ago, New Zealand latched on to the concept of “destination playgrounds” which are becoming widespread throughout the country. Presumably somebody thought Auckland Zoo of all places needed one to keep up with competing attractions.

Ironically, an actual playground would make much better use of the space and could be contained efficiently within the smaller space of the pinniped pool and penguin pool - not that they need one of these either.

 

[Zoofan15]

Update from my visit (03/05/2025):

I asked several keepers and volunteers on my visit over the weekend about future developments. A keeper said there’s just been a meeting regarding the zoo’s masterplan involving senior management (the meeting wasn’t at keeper level, so the keeper couldn’t share details). It’ll be interesting to see if there’s been any revisions made to what’s previously been outlined.

A volunteer speculated that the site of the playground could be the site of the old elephant exhibit (currently home to a dinosaur exhibition). I initially dismissed the idea as the zoo have publicly stated it will become part of the African precinct (housing rhinos), which aligns with what I’ve been told on previous visits; though there is some logic in the idea:

The zoo have had five years since the elephant phase out was announced in 2020 to come up with a vision for this space and the best they’ve come up with is an expanded rhino exhibit. If building the playground here instead saves multiple other exhibits being scrapped, I’d be happy.

There’s little to no hope of the import of 35 Southern white rhinoceros from South Africa going ahead now and with Hamilton Zoo planning to expand their rhino facilities to manage a larger herd, Auckland Zoo may be willing to take a back seat in breeding. Their two young cows (born 2020 and 2022) have no breeding application in New Zealand and will inevitably head to Australia; and the death of the ageing bull would leave them with just 1.1 rhinos (their breeding female and her five month old calf). There’s not currently a large surplus of rhinos available in the region as evidenced by three of the four open range zoos having only one viable cow), so it definitely wouldn’t surprise me to see Auckland scale back their plans in response. They could even send Jamila to Orana (to provide them with a second viable cow) and house just a single bull (Zuka) long term.

The dinosaur exhibition was swarming with kids and the layout of the zoo (>95% of people begin their visit with the Savannah) served to the funnel them all through the Savannah over the first 20-30 minutes in time for the exhibition opening at 10am. It’s easy to see how a playground could serve the same function (not that I want one).

 

[ApeLadyNZ]

Update from my visit (03/05/2025):

I asked several keepers and volunteers on my visit over the weekend about future developments. A keeper said there’s just been a meeting regarding the zoo’s masterplan involving senior management (the meeting wasn’t at keeper level, so the keeper couldn’t share details). It’ll be interesting to see if there’s been any revisions made to what’s previously been outlined.

A volunteer speculated that the site of the playground could be the site of the old elephant exhibit (currently home to a dinosaur exhibition). I initially dismissed the idea as the zoo have publicly stated it will become part of the African precinct (housing rhinos), which aligns with what I’ve been told on previous visits; though there is some logic in the idea:

The zoo have had five years since the elephant phase out was announced in 2020 to come up with a vision for this space and the best they’ve come up with is an expanded rhino exhibit. If building the playground here instead saves multiple other exhibits being scrapped, I’d be happy.

There’s little to no hope of the import of 35 Southern white rhinoceros from South Africa going ahead now and with Hamilton Zoo planning to expand their rhino facilities to manage a larger herd, Auckland Zoo may be willing to take a back seat in breeding. Their two young cows (born 2020 and 2022) have no breeding application in New Zealand and will inevitably head to Australia; and the death of the ageing bull would leave them with just 1.1 rhinos (their breeding female and her five month old calf). There’s not currently a large surplus of rhinos available in the region as evidenced by three of the four open range zoos having only one viable cow), so it definitely wouldn’t surprise me to see Auckland scale back their plans in response. They could even send Jamila to Orana (to provide them with a second viable cow) and house just a single bull (Zuka) long term.

The dinosaur exhibition was swarming with kids and the layout of the zoo (>95% of people begin their visit with the Savannah) served to the funnel them all through the Savannah over the first 20-30 minutes in time for the exhibition opening at 10am. It’s easy to see how a playground could serve the same function (not that I want one).

This news sounds rather disappointing; decreasing the size of the rhino crash AND more play areas seems like a waste of zoo resources. I hope this is not their intention going forward.

Perhaps there is some discussion going on about the possibility of giant pandas, although I don't think we should get our hopes up over those either, it would be something I would really love to see happen.

 

[Zoofan15]

This news sounds rather disappointing; decreasing the size of the rhino crash AND more play areas seems like a waste of zoo resources. I hope this is not their intention going forward.

Perhaps there is some discussion going on about the possibility of giant pandas, although I don't think we should get our hopes up over those either, it would be something I would really love to see happen.

It was merely the volunteers speculation (namely thinking where a large playground could go), so I’m not putting much weight on the idea going ahead; but more being considering the possibility and the implications.

Realistically speaking, the species most in danger of being phased out are as follows:

Ring-tailed lemur
Hamadryas baboon
Serval
Cheetah
Subantarctic fur seal
Little blue penguin

I would assess the Hamadryas baboon as the greatest loss to the zoo. The exhibit is fit for purpose (housing a medium sized troop) and the baboons are an engaging exhibit that captivates the public.

Fur seals are a close second. They’re equal in popularity to the baboons and considered the stars of the New Zealand precinct by the majority of the general public. The only criticism I ever hear is from visitors wishing there were more seals to see. I’d place this exhibit second due to the investment required in this exhibit to bring it up to standard.

The phase out of Cheetah is inevitable. The exhibit looks cramped by modern standards; though it would be entirely suitable for renovation to house Serval, Caracal or lemurs.

The trio of elderly Ring-tailed lemur make for an inspiring exhibit. My preference would be to see these replaced upon their passing with a Sri Lankan leopard. The exhibit would be a suitable size for a single leopard, supporting breeding efforts in Australia.

I could take or leave the Little blue penguin exhibit. I saw one voluntarily take a swim for the first time in memory this weekend; but they’re primarily an add on to the fur seal exhibit, complimenting it nicely in theory if not practice.

Serval have been held at Auckland Zoo for 42 years now. I will be disappointed to see them phased out assuming that is indeed the plan. They have a single elderly female who is unreliable of whether she’s seen on any given visit. I will miss the species, though I doubt the general public will. Their best shot at remaining within the collection is if there was any interest in redeveloping the Cheetah exhibit for them. With growing interest in Caracal in the region, I’m inclined to say they’d take preference if future planning saw fit to include a grassland cat.

 

[ApeLadyNZ]

It was merely the volunteers speculation (namely thinking where a large playground could go), so I’m not putting much weight on the idea going ahead; but more being considering the possibility and the implications.

Realistically speaking, the species most in danger of being phased out are as follows:

Ring-tailed lemur
Hamadryas baboon
Serval
Cheetah
Subantarctic fur seal
Little blue penguin

I would assess the Hamadryas baboon as the greatest loss to the zoo. The exhibit is fit for purpose (housing a medium sized troop) and the baboons are an engaging exhibit that captivates the public.

Fur seals are a close second. They’re equal in popularity to the baboons and considered the stars of the New Zealand precinct by the majority of the general public. The only criticism I ever hear is from visitors wishing there were more seals to see. I’d place this exhibit second due to the investment required in this exhibit to bring it up to standard.

The phase out of Cheetah is inevitable. The exhibit looks cramped by modern standards; though it would be entirely suitable for renovation to house Serval, Caracal or lemurs.

The trio of elderly Ring-tailed lemur make for an inspiring exhibit. My preference would be to see these replaced upon their passing with a Sri Lankan leopard. The exhibit would be a suitable size for a single leopard, supporting breeding efforts in Australia.

I could take or leave the Little blue penguin exhibit. I saw one voluntarily take a swim for the first time in memory this weekend; but they’re primarily an add on to the fur seal exhibit, complimenting it nicely in theory if not practice.

Serval have been held at Auckland Zoo for 42 years now. I will be disappointed to see them phased out assuming that is indeed the plan. They have a single elderly female who is unreliable of whether she’s seen on any given visit. I will miss the species, though I doubt the general public will. Their best shot at remaining within the collection is if there was any interest in redeveloping the Cheetah exhibit for them. With growing interest in Caracal in the region, I’m inclined to say they’d take preference if future planning saw fit to include a grassland cat.

It will indeed be disappointing to see serval, baboons, serval and cheetah phased out (though I agree with you that the exhibit as it stands is no longer suitable for cheetah). I am hoping that the zoo will reconsider phasing out the baboons as they are still quite the drawcard and are the only African monkey species the zoo holds.

And yes, I would indeed like to see caracal at the zoo - I think they'd be quite an attraction! Perhaps ring-tailed lemurs could be replaced with red ruffed lemurs in the future, although a Sri Lankan leopard would certainly be an awesome addition to the zoo!

I do think the little blue penguins can easily be phased out, as although very cute, they're seldom easy to spot and hardly ever use the pool, so perhaps they would be better off housed elsewhere.