Auckland Zoo Future Development of Auckland Zoo (Speculation)

[Zoofan15]

My view is that because Auckland zoo set the bar so high with its outstanding South East Asian precinct anything less than the standard set for this would be disappointing, Hopefully whatever they decide to construct is just as good!

I really hope Auckland Zoo take the route of building a world class precinct. While husbandry standards have evolved exponentially over the past 100 years across all species, it’s not hard to imagine something built to the standard of the South East Asian precinct having a longevity of at least 30-50 years. While I acknowledge it will be a substantial investment off the back of the $62 million already spent, it will see a large part of the zoo set up for the next half a century.

As outlined above, ideas could be a novel species or pre-empting changing public perceptions to give existing species a larger exhibit. Exhibits that are adequate now will inevitably appear dated in decades to come. A prime example is Lion Hill, which opened in 1998 and marked an evolution is husbandry from housing the lions in the lion pit that was built in 1922. Initially home to a breeding pride, which twice peaked at 11 lions in 2001 and 2004, the exhibit is now considered suitable for a small non-breeding pride.

Bar the anticipated demolition of the pinniped pool (and possibly the penguin pools), I’m not expecting any drastic changes to the New Zealand precinct; and with the upgrades to the Australian precinct, it appears they’re set for the next couple of decades at least.

This leaves the South American precinct. Though the majority of the changes are quick fixes. The main issue is the emptiness of the Rainforest trail, namely the vacant Siamang exhibit. There’s countless more exciting alternatives; but even building a second spider monkey exhibit would be better than nothing. It would better enable them to facilitate breeding/introductions and once a cohesive troop has been achieved, the monkeys could have the run of both exhibits via tunnels (ideally overhead) or ropes connecting the two.

 

[ElephasMaximus]

I really hope Auckland Zoo take the route of building a world class precinct. While husbandry standards have evolved exponentially over the past 100 years across all species, it’s not hard to imagine something built to the standard of the South East Asian precinct having a longevity of at least 30-50 years. While I acknowledge it will be a substantial investment off the back of the $62 million already spent, it will see a large part of the zoo set up for the next half a century.

As outlined above, ideas could be a novel species or pre-empting changing public perceptions to give existing species a larger exhibit. Exhibits that are adequate now will inevitably appear dated in decades to come. A prime example is Lion Hill, which opened in 1998 and marked an evolution is husbandry from housing the lions in the lion pit that was built in 1922. Initially home to a breeding pride, which twice peaked at 11 lions in 2001 and 2004, the exhibit is now considered suitable for a small non-breeding pride.

Bar the anticipated demolition of the pinniped pool (and possibly the penguin pools), I’m not expecting any drastic changes to the New Zealand precinct; and with the upgrades to the Australian precinct, it appears they’re set for the next couple of decades at least.

This leaves the South American precinct. Though the majority of the changes are quick fixes. The main issue is the emptiness of the Rainforest trail, namely the vacant Siamang exhibit. There’s countless more exciting alternatives; but even building a second spider monkey exhibit would be better than nothing. It would better enable them to facilitate breeding/introductions and once a cohesive troop has been achieved, the monkeys could have the run of both exhibits via tunnels (ideally overhead) or ropes connecting the two.

If Auckland Zoo does go with the world-class precinct option (fingers crossed!) I think their best options would be either A) an African rainforest / congo track; B) a hippo exhibit; or C) a giant panda exhibit.

There are very few African rainforest species already present in NZ - the gorillas at Orana are the only ones that spring to mind - but quite a few species are able to be imported, and several are already present in Australia. Gorillas would be the centrepiece of an African rainforest exhibit, and their presence could be complemented by bongo, okapi, and/or a few African primate species. Mandrill are designated as a phase out within the region, but perhaps if Auckland was willing to commit to the species they'd be able to persuade other zoos to keep them on? If Auckland's not too fussy about the theming, they could include lemurs in the exhibit as well, or even fossa! Pygmy hippos would be a good fit, but would require long-term planning due to the lack of an IHS. Bird options are unfortunately fairly limited, but that's inevitable for any NZ zoo exhibit based around overseas biomes, with the exception of Australia. I'm not sure what herps are available for the exhibit, but I'm not sure they'd be necessary in any case - the above species seem sufficient on their own.

When the last hippos died in 2016 Auckland made vague noises about getting replacements, but this was probably just meant to pacify disappointed zoo-goers as they've made no efforts since then. There was no valid IHS at the time in any case, and there still isn't one now. Getting hippos back in the country would therefore require long-term planning, but maybe Auckland would be willing to make the effort now - they'd most likely be popular among visitors.

Giant pandas were recently proposed as a replacement for the elephants and the possibility was discussed on this forum. I personally like this option best, but there are a lot of "ifs" around the concept, and it's so costly that it might be quite risky for Auckland. Still, I don't like that Australia has pandas and we don't! Depending on how much space is available, perhaps giant pandas could be complemented by other species? Auckland already has red pandas, and other East Asian species available in the country include Pere David's deer and various pheasant species.

 

[Zoofan15]

If Auckland Zoo does go with the world-class precinct option (fingers crossed!) I think their best options would be either A) an African rainforest / congo track; B) a hippo exhibit; or C) a giant panda exhibit.

There are very few African rainforest species already present in NZ - the gorillas at Orana are the only ones that spring to mind - but quite a few species are able to be imported, and several are already present in Australia. Gorillas would be the centrepiece of an African rainforest exhibit, and their presence could be complemented by bongo, okapi, and/or a few African primate species. Mandrill are designated as a phase out within the region, but perhaps if Auckland was willing to commit to the species they'd be able to persuade other zoos to keep them on? If Auckland's not too fussy about the theming, they could include lemurs in the exhibit as well, or even fossa! Pygmy hippos would be a good fit, but would require long-term planning due to the lack of an IHS. Bird options are unfortunately fairly limited, but that's inevitable for any NZ zoo exhibit based around overseas biomes, with the exception of Australia. I'm not sure what herps are available for the exhibit, but I'm not sure they'd be necessary in any case - the above species seem sufficient on their own.

When the last hippos died in 2016 Auckland made vague noises about getting replacements, but this was probably just meant to pacify disappointed zoo-goers as they've made no efforts since then. There was no valid IHS at the time in any case, and there still isn't one now. Getting hippos back in the country would therefore require long-term planning, but maybe Auckland would be willing to make the effort now - they'd most likely be popular among visitors.

Giant pandas were recently proposed as a replacement for the elephants and the possibility was discussed on this forum. I personally like this option best, but there are a lot of "ifs" around the concept, and it's so costly that it might be quite risky for Auckland. Still, I don't like that Australia has pandas and we don't! Depending on how much space is available, perhaps giant pandas could be complemented by other species? Auckland already has red pandas, and other East Asian species available in the country include Pere David's deer and various pheasant species.

All good points.

Giant panda certainly can’t be ruled out, as surprising as it would be. In terms of popularity, Giant panda is the only species that would eclipse elephants. Pandas and elephants are first and second; with great apes and big cats then taking the next tier down. It would be a good opportunity to build new red panda exhibits as the space would otherwise be huge even for two decent sized panda exhibits. If we’re really lucky, perhaps even some Francois langurs?

I feel like a Congo precinct is the most viable option. Western lowland gorillas would be available via the European population (there’s not really a surplus within Australasia at the moment) and could be easily paired with other Congo species to form an impressive precinct. Okapi would be an exciting addition (and possible now we have the Giraffe/Okapi IRA in New Zealand). Eastern bongo would also be achievable; though black and white colobus would be even easier. Mandrill may well be out in the two hard basket; but have some level of support within the Australian private zoos apparently. Pygmy hippopotamus is a species I’m confident in ruling out in the absence of an IHS for the species. There’s easier options.

I agree with you that lemurs and gorillas could potentially be combined as an ‘African forest’ precinct was one concept considered by Auckland Zoo a few years ago. This could encompass both the Congo rainforest and the forests of Madagascar.

 

[Zorro]

All good points.

Giant panda certainly can’t be ruled out, as surprising as it would be. In terms of popularity, Giant panda is the only species that would eclipse elephants. Pandas and elephants are first and second; with great apes and big cats then taking the next tier down. It would be a good opportunity to build new red panda exhibits as the space would otherwise be huge even for two decent sized panda exhibits. If we’re really lucky, perhaps even some Francois langurs?

I feel like a Congo precinct is the most viable option. Western lowland gorillas would be available via the European population (there’s not really a surplus within Australasia at the moment) and could be easily paired with other Congo species to form an impressive precinct. Okapi would be an exciting addition (and possible now we have the Giraffe/Okapi IRA in New Zealand). Eastern bongo would also be achievable; though black and white colobus would be even easier. Mandrill may well be out in the two hard basket; but have some level of support within the Australian private zoos apparently. Pygmy hippopotamus is a species I’m confident in ruling out in the absence of an IHS for the species. There’s easier options.

I agree with you that lemurs and gorillas could potentially be combined as an ‘African forest’ precinct was one concept considered by Auckland Zoo a few years ago. This could encompass both the Congo rainforest and the forests of Madagascar.

If Auckland Zoo were interested in acquiring Okapi and I really hope that was the case I would expect any trade in an exchange of animals would have to be a monumental one on AZ part, I could see that working for Taronga because Platypus are ultra rare and highly desirable outside of Australia. anything out of NZ would have to be a very special gift indeed!

 

[ElephasMaximus]

All good points.

Giant panda certainly can’t be ruled out, as surprising as it would be. In terms of popularity, Giant panda is the only species that would eclipse elephants. Pandas and elephants are first and second; with great apes and big cats then taking the next tier down. It would be a good opportunity to build new red panda exhibits as the space would otherwise be huge even for two decent sized panda exhibits. If we’re really lucky, perhaps even some Francois langurs?

I feel like a Congo precinct is the most viable option. Western lowland gorillas would be available via the European population (there’s not really a surplus within Australasia at the moment) and could be easily paired with other Congo species to form an impressive precinct. Okapi would be an exciting addition (and possible now we have the Giraffe/Okapi IRA in New Zealand). Eastern bongo would also be achievable; though black and white colobus would be even easier. Mandrill may well be out in the two hard basket; but have some level of support within the Australian private zoos apparently. Pygmy hippopotamus is a species I’m confident in ruling out in the absence of an IHS for the species. There’s easier options.

I agree with you that lemurs and gorillas could potentially be combined as an ‘African forest’ precinct was one concept considered by Auckland Zoo a few years ago. This could encompass both the Congo rainforest and the forests of Madagascar.

This is all basically my view on things. Pandas would be the dream, congo seems more likely - assuming they try anything new at all! Maybe best not to get one's hopes up.

IIRC Auckland actually considered getting Francois' Langurs for their Southeast Asian exhibit, but they didn't go ahead with that - maybe they thought siamangs were enough for a smaller primate species? And in any case Francois' langurs only just count as Southeast Asian - but they'd be very suitable for an East Asian exhibit!

I think they'd need to file a bit of paperwork to get okapis - get them added to the Approved Animal list for NZ zoos - but that'd only add 6-12 months to the wait time, so the zoo may well judge the effort worth it. OTOH, they might think the more easily-obtained bongo would be sufficient hoofstock for the exhibit. I like bongo, but okapi would be so much cooler.

As I said, pygmy hippo would take long-term planning. If Auckland ever wanted them, they would probably only be able to obtain them several years after the exhibit opened. I just really want hippos back in the country

 

[Zoofan15]

If Auckland Zoo were interested in acquiring Okapi and I really hope that was the case I would expect any trade in an exchange of animals would have to be a monumental one on AZ part, I could see that working for Taronga because Platypus are ultra rare and highly desirable outside of Australia. anything out of NZ would have to be a very special gift indeed!

This is all basically my view on things. Pandas would be the dream, congo seems more likely - assuming they try anything new at all! Maybe best not to get one's hopes up.

IIRC Auckland actually considered getting Francois' Langurs for their Southeast Asian exhibit, but they didn't go ahead with that - maybe they thought siamangs were enough for a smaller primate species? And in any case Francois' langurs only just count as Southeast Asian - but they'd be very suitable for an East Asian exhibit!

I think they'd need to file a bit of paperwork to get okapis - get them added to the Approved Animal list for NZ zoos - but that'd only add 6-12 months to the wait time, so the zoo may well judge the effort worth it. OTOH, they might think the more easily-obtained bongo would be sufficient hoofstock for the exhibit. I like bongo, but okapi would be so much cooler.

As I said, pygmy hippo would take long-term planning. If Auckland ever wanted them, they would probably only be able to obtain them several years after the exhibit opened. I just really want hippos back in the country

It’d be fascinating to see what influence (if any) Auckland Zoo receiving Okapi had on Taronga (and possibly Melbourne Zoo) receiving them. For a start, New Zealand could function as a quarantine hub for Australian, which doesn’t have an IRA.

I’m inclined to believe that while there’s hardly a surplus in North America (or Europe for that matter), more value would be seen in sending some to our region if three holders came on board. This would enable re-pairing and regional exchange versus merely breeding (best case scenario) calves that would then be sent back to the US.

It’d be interesting to see if it involved a trade of any kind. Kiwi (which are housed in multiple US facilities) and Tuatara (which are seldom exported out of New Zealand) would be the most desired species. Bearing in mind Taronga had to import Tuatara from Chester Zoo and I don’t know what chance even San Diego etc would have in receiving some.

I agree Eastern bongo may be a simpler option. I would prefer Okapi, but the gorillas would be the headliners of the precinct and the general public probably wouldn’t enjoy the Okapi on as many levels as we would anyway. They’d surely be just as happy with bongo.

 

[Zoofan15]

IIRC Auckland actually considered getting Francois' Langurs for their Southeast Asian exhibit, but they didn't go ahead with that - maybe they thought siamangs were enough for a smaller primate species? And in any case Francois' langurs only just count as Southeast Asian - but they'd be very suitable for an East Asian exhibit!

I’d forgotten all about this!

Yes, Auckland Zoo originally planned to import langurs (no species specified) and Bonnet macaques. I agree Francois langurs were likely given the South East Asian theme. Potentially the males Taronga sent to Singapore would have been candidates.

Yes, the Siamang were clearly considered sufficient accompaniments to the Bornean orangutan; though many of us wish they’d dedicated both ape exhibits to orangutans. I might feel differently if the Siamang were a breeding pair; but even then, my hope was for facilities to support a larger orangutan colony. Their previous colony peaked at nine orangutans in three groups across two exhibits in 2005.

The Bonnet macaque would have been a good fit for the off display red panda exhibit that opposite the orangutans.

 

[Zorro]

It’d be fascinating to see what influence (if any) Auckland Zoo receiving Okapi had on Taronga (and possibly Melbourne Zoo) receiving them. For a start, New Zealand could function as a quarantine hub for Australian, which doesn’t have an IRA.

I’m inclined to believe that while there’s hardly a surplus in North America (or Europe for that matter), more value would be seen in sending some to our region if three holders came on board. This would enable re-pairing and regional exchange versus merely breeding (best case scenario) calves that would then be sent back to the US.

It’d be interesting to see if it involved a trade of any kind. Kiwi (which are housed in multiple US facilities) and Tuatara (which are seldom exported out of New Zealand) would be the most desired species. Bearing in mind Taronga had to import Tuatara from Chester Zoo and I don’t know what chance even San Diego etc would have in receiving some.

I agree Eastern bongo may be a simpler option. I would prefer Okapi, but the gorillas would be the headliners of the precinct and the general public probably wouldn’t enjoy the Okapi on as many levels as we would anyway. They’d surely be just as happy with bongo.

I believe it would be highly unlikely that a zoo would send out Okapi without getting anything in return and while as you have pointed out about it appears there is not much of a surplus lets look now at how many zoos outside of the USA and Europe that have them now also including I believe one private Indian zoo if I am correct. All these animals can be managed as part of a world captive population with air travel as it is possible

 

[Jambo]

including I believe one private Indian zoo if I am correct

Correct, although I doubt the ZAA would cooperate due to their questionable practices (to say the least). The European program is much similar to the US, with little surplus.

If anything re. Okapi, I think we could expect Taronga to perhaps eventually gain a pair of Okapi. Perhaps they'll be allowed to breed, with offspring then displayed regionally. But I would be surprised if there was enough numbers in a decades time to generate enough surplus to kickstart a regional breeding program.

 

[Jambo]

In a comment on a post, the zoo have stated the elephant exhibit will be developed as part of the Africa Safari Track. This is a statement that’s been made in the past, so it’s unclear if this reflects recent meetings held by senior management on the zoo’s masterplan; but if so, implies a Savannah expansion is still in the works. At a minimum, I hope this includes future provision for Waterbuck; and the retention of Hamadryas baboon. Enough species have already been phased out, with more to follow (pinnipeds etc).

My fingers are crossed that the zoo won't end up utilising this area for their playground plans!! It would look quite stupid with the Western Springs playground literally in view right on the other side of the zoos perimeter fence.

In all honesty though, I think there's a good possibility Auckland are considering a redevelopment of the whole African precinct. A lot of the facilities there aren't dated now, but they certainly will begin to be in a decades time, so there's the option to be proactive if they wish.

If the zoo phases out both Serval and Cheetah due to spatial reasons, I wouldn't be mad. An extension of the current Rhino Savannah makes sense to accommodate the growing White Rhino (which will grow via imports) and breeding herds of more antelope species, like Waterbuck.

If a Flamingo aviary is desired, I can also see it being expanded into the current Cheetah exhibit. An expansion of the Lion exhibit is also very likely, although this would likely have to be via an overhead pathway connecting to a second exhibit; perhaps the Cheetah space, netted over if a Flamingo expansion isn't deemed necessary.

 

[Zorro]

My fingers are crossed that the zoo won't end up utilising this area for their playground plans!! It would look quite stupid with the Western Springs playground literally in view right on the other side of the zoos perimeter fence.

In all honesty though, I think there's a good possibility Auckland are considering a redevelopment of the whole African precinct. A lot of the facilities there aren't dated now, but they certainly will begin to be in a decades time, so there's the option to be proactive if they wish.

If the zoo phases out both Serval and Cheetah due to spatial reasons, I wouldn't be mad. An extension of the current Rhino Savannah makes sense to accommodate the growing White Rhino (which will grow via imports) and breeding herds of more antelope species, like Waterbuck.

If a Flamingo aviary is desired, I can also see it being expanded into the current Cheetah exhibit. An expansion of the Lion exhibit is also very likely, although this would likely have to be via an overhead pathway connecting to a second exhibit; perhaps the Cheetah space, netted over if a Flamingo expansion isn't deemed necessary.

I think a new Flamingo aviary would be a wise investment, Auckland are the only zoo in the whole region to have gone to all the trouble to obtain them and they could if given enough space supply other zoos with them in the future!

 

[Zoofan15]

My fingers are crossed that the zoo won't end up utilising this area for their playground plans!! It would look quite stupid with the Western Springs playground literally in view right on the other side of the zoos perimeter fence.

In all honesty though, I think there's a good possibility Auckland are considering a redevelopment of the whole African precinct. A lot of the facilities there aren't dated now, but they certainly will begin to be in a decades time, so there's the option to be proactive if they wish.

If the zoo phases out both Serval and Cheetah due to spatial reasons, I wouldn't be mad. An extension of the current Rhino Savannah makes sense to accommodate the growing White Rhino (which will grow via imports) and breeding herds of more antelope species, like Waterbuck.

If a Flamingo aviary is desired, I can also see it being expanded into the current Cheetah exhibit. An expansion of the Lion exhibit is also very likely, although this would likely have to be via an overhead pathway connecting to a second exhibit; perhaps the Cheetah space, netted over if a Flamingo expansion isn't deemed necessary.

I think a new Flamingo aviary would be a wise investment, Auckland are the only zoo in the whole region to have gone to all the trouble to obtain them and they could if given enough space supply other zoos with them in the future!

One concept Auckland Zoo were previously exploring was an inter-connected series of Savannah exhibits where the ungulate species held in them can be rotated through. Personally I think the giraffe exhibit is large enough unless they want to establish a large breeding herd, but I can see value in offering the Southern white rhinoceros an extension; and accomodating multiple species/groupings of antelopes.

A flamingo aviary is would be invaluable in establishing a larger flock. It’s well documented breeding success surges when flocks reach 40 or more birds and the current exhibit would look very cramped if it held this number.

 

[Zoofan15]

Part 1/2 - Confirmation of Future Developments

During my visit to Auckland Zoo on 14/11/2025, I took the opportunity to ask about future developments and have the following updates:

The Coast:

Pinnipeds are indeed being phased out, with the demolition of their exhibit paving the way for a total redevelopment of The Coast. Little blue penguins will remain in the collection and a new exhibit will house an expanded colony. The complex is also planned to house new coastal species such as Katipo (Latrodectus katipo) and Shore skink (Oligosoma smithi).

This development is in the next phase of the masterplan (i.e. will be happening in the near future).

Elephant Exhibit:

An extension to the Savannah has been confirmed as the replacement for the elephants. The Southern white rhinoceros will receive a new exhibit (on the site of the elephant exhibit); with the area occupied by this exhibit used to extend the habitats for the other African savannah species (Giraffe, Plains zebra, Waterbuck, Lowland nyala and Common ostrich).

While the two remaining Waterbuck are elderly, the zoo does not plan to phase them out of the collection.

Other Phase Outs:

A redevelopment of the space occupied by the Cheetah, Serval and Hamadryas baboon exhibit is in the plans, but not for the next five years. As such, no confirmation can be given on plans for the future of these species.

 

[Zoofan15]

Part 2/2 - Discussion

In order to seperate facts from opinion/speculation, I will detail my personal thoughts under each heading:

The Coast:

Pinnipeds are indeed being phased out, with the demolition of their exhibit paving the way for a total redevelopment of The Coast. Little blue penguins will remain in the collection and a new exhibit will house an expanded colony. The complex is also planned to house new coastal species such as Katipo (Latrodectus katipo) and Shore skink (Oligosoma smithi).

This development is in the next phase of the masterplan (i.e. will be happening in the near future).

The phase out of pinnipeds has been in the plans for a long time and therefore this confirmation comes as no surprise. At 18 years, the remaining fur seal is considered elderly and for obvious reasons, we can expect his general health to guide any decisions around his future i.e. whether he will be exported to Sea World Gold Coast; or whether it’s considered kinder to let him live out his remaining time at Auckland Zoo.

This is a good opportunity for Auckland Zoo to build an engaging penguin exhibit and establish a large, self-sustaining colony of Little blue penguin. This speices has never thrived in the current exhibit, with poor breeding success; and a total avoidance of the pool. I’ve visited several zoos and aquariums who hold Little blue penguins and in contrast to Auckland’s penguins, they’re seldom out the water. Many of these exhibits have design features such as wide steps/ramps to support an incremental submersion into the water; and sufficient water space to enable natural penguin behaviours such as gliding. While the lack of engagment within Auckland’s colony has been attributed to their background (injured birds with disabilities), I’m inclined to believe there may also be design flaws which can be remedied with the design of a new exhibit from scratch.

It’ll be good to see some new species in this area (spiders and skinks), but overall, I’m thrilled it’s being retained as part of the New Zealand precinct (as opposed to becoming a playground etc).

Elephant Exhibit:

An extension to the Savannah has been confirmed as the replacement for the elephants. The Southern white rhinoceros will receive a new exhibit (on the site of the elephant exhibit); with the area occupied by this exhibit used to extend the habitats for the other African savannah species (Giraffe, Plains zebra, Waterbuck, Lowland nyala and Common ostrich).

While the two remaining Waterbuck are elderly, the zoo does not plan to phase them out of the collection.

This was one of the oiginal ideas proposed for this precinct and it appears after exploring alternatives, they arrived back at this concept. While I would have preferred a Congo precinct of a lion/hyena complex, this also has the opportunity to be enacted effectively.

Auckland Zoo’s Southern white rhinoceros herd has been highly productive in recent years; and with future plans to import more rhinos into the region from Europe, there’s huge potential for Auckland to increase their holdings.

Since the current giraffe exhibit is more than sufficient for the numbers it’s holds, I’m hopeful the space vacated by the rhinos will be used to better manage the breeding of antelopes (including Waterbuck). The acquisition of new species seems unlikely at this stage.

Other Phase Outs:

A redevelopment of the space occupied by the Cheetah, Serval and Hamadryas baboon exhibit is in the plans, but not for the next five years. As such, no confirmation can be given on plans for the future of these species.

The take home from this is that the baboons will be around for at least five more years. Beyond that is anyone’s guess and there’s little point speculating further on something the zoo haven’t even locked in a decision on at this point.

The Cheetah and the Serval are aged 10 and 12 years respectively (i.e. all are senior cats). Given the captive lifespan of this species, it’s possible they’ll be around for the next five years; but in the event they pass before then, it’s reasonable to assume their exhibits will either sit empty or be repurposed for something on a temporary basis.

Last I heard, the playground was scheduled to be built in this area, but thankfully no longer appears to be a priority project (the original plan was to begin construction next year).

 

[Jambo]

Pinnipeds are indeed being phased out, with the demolition of their exhibit paving the way for a total redevelopment of The Coast. Little blue penguins will remain in the collection and a new exhibit will house an expanded colony. The complex is also planned to house new coastal species such as Katipo (Latrodectus katipo) and Shore skink (Oligosoma smithi).

It's great that Little Blue Penguins are going to be retained within the zoos collection. They serve as a nice ambassador species, and with a new exhibit, Auckland will hopefully have a nice opportunity to establish a bigger breeding group. I was afraid that with the opening of the exhibit at West Coast, that that facility would be deemed sufficient enough to house/rehab any NZ rescues.

An extension to the Savannah has been confirmed as the replacement for the elephants. The Southern white rhinoceros will receive a new exhibit (on the site of the elephant exhibit); with the area occupied by this exhibit used to extend the habitats for the other African savannah species (Giraffe, Plains zebra, Waterbuck, Lowland nyala and Common ostrich).

While the two remaining Waterbuck are elderly, the zoo does not plan to phase them out of the collection.

That's good news. I wonder whether they'll continue to give them access to the current habitat; but it would be great to give the likes of the Giraffe, Zebra and Ostrich access to that habitat too. Although their current habitat is large enough, them having the ability to roam the whole area would be a sight to see.

Also glad to hear the zoo doesn't plan to phase their Waterbuck out. With Werribee hopefully breeding the species soon again, and the other three facilities all breeding too, Auckland could hopefully revive their herd in the coming years with a few new additions.

Last I heard, the playground was scheduled to be built in this area, but thankfully no longer appears to be a priority project (the original plan was to begin construction next year).

It's interesting that the play area has seemingly been canned (or thrown on the backburner). Perhaps the zoos realised there's other priorities in the meantime (ie. expanding rhino holdings, renovating coasts).

It's possible they'll consider the new play once these are completed at the beginning of next decade, which aligns with the timeframe given about the Baboon/Cheetah/Serval area being potentially redeveloped.

 

[Zoofan15]

It's great that Little Blue Penguins are going to be retained within the zoos collection. They serve as a nice ambassador species, and with a new exhibit, Auckland will hopefully have a nice opportunity to establish a bigger breeding group. I was afraid that with the opening of the exhibit at West Coast, that that facility would be deemed sufficient enough to house/rehab any NZ rescues.

That's good news. I wonder whether they'll continue to give them access to the current habitat; but it would be great to give the likes of the Giraffe, Zebra and Ostrich access to that habitat too. Although their current habitat is large enough, them having the ability to roam the whole area would be a sight to see.

Also glad to hear the zoo doesn't plan to phase their Waterbuck out. With Werribee hopefully breeding the species soon again, and the other three facilities all breeding too, Auckland could hopefully revive their herd in the coming years with a few new additions.

It's interesting that the play area has seemingly been canned (or thrown on the backburner). Perhaps the zoos realised there's other priorities in the meantime (ie. expanding rhino holdings, renovating coasts).

It's possible they'll consider the new play once these are completed at the beginning of next decade, which aligns with the timeframe given about the Baboon/Cheetah/Serval area being potentially redeveloped.

The Coast has presumably been designated the most urgent priority as the inevitable death of the elderly fur seal will render it a non-attraction overnight. The zoo are currently taking wide-scale maintenance of nearly every exhibit in the zoo throughout November, which combined with the elephant exhibit opening as another temporary exhibition in December, will see them firing on all cylinders for the foreseeable and well placed to close The Coast for redevelopment as and when needed.

The elephant exhibit is a priority too for obvious reasons (it’s a big empty exhibit), but temporary exhibits in this area can be slotted in to fill whatever gap is required before redevelopment takes place. The exhibit (basically a massive paddock) lends itself to the installation of these temporary exhibits - which isn’t within the scope of any other exhibit in the zoo scheduled for phase out.

It appears the Hamadryas baboon, Cheetah and Serval exhibits have been designated phase out; but all the time they have occupants, there’s clearly greater priorities and if all that’s coming is a playground, it can take as long as it takes as far as I’m concerned. How long the ageing cats will live is anyone’s guess; but the baboons are a reproductive troop that will certainly be around in five years time.