This 95 year old big cat pit was one of Auckland Zoo’s original exhibits (constructed in 1922) and for over 75 years, was home to African lions. In March 1998, the last of their pride was sent to Wellington Zoo; and after renovations, two Sumatran tigers (siblings, Nisha and Malu) arrived. It would then hold Sumatran tigers for a further two decades. This photo was taken shortly before it’s demolition, ahead of the construction of the South East Asia precinct.
I thought the zoo did an exceptional job of softening the once stark, concrete terrain with vegetation. The many entrances to the dens (behind the concrete facade) are barely visible behind a wall of Ivy. These dens were visible to the public (from the rear) for many decades until the 1990’s.
@DelacoursLangur Agreed! Auckland Zoo has demolished so many of the original 1922 exhibits in the last couple of years - including two old bear pits, an aviary and this exhibit. They also demolished the old chimpanzee/orangutan exhibit, which was formerly a wolf pit. I have no objection to the creation of modern exhibits; but am a huge fan of remodelling/repurposing historical architecture where possible!
