Wellington Zoo is boasting about its newest arrival – a new high-tech animal hospital.
It has even been designed so members of the public can see exactly what goes on behind closed door in the operating room.
“It's real-time vet work, so they could be seeing a sun bear having its tooth checked through to a lion having its teeth checked as it's happening,” says the zoo’s chief executive, Karen Fifield.
The $6 million project has been seven years in the making.
It is called The Nest because it aims to nurture and care for the all of the zoo’s residents, allowing them to have check ups and operations on site, under the watchful eyes of some of their smallest fans.
“We've had a couple of procedures now, it's a little bit daunting but once you get used to it you concentrate on what needs to be done and you kind of forget about the people behind you,” says veterinarian Francois Lampen.
Those on the other side of the glass will not forget the experience. Feedback so far has been very positive.
Just three of the zoo's residents will not get to enjoy the new premises, because they are too heavy.
“In the old hospital we couldn't even fit the lions through the door, but we can fit everyone in except the giraffes,” says Ms Fifield.
It has got to be one of the only hospitals where patient privacy is not a priority.
