Home to more than 600 native and exotic animals and set amidst 25ha of lush and tranquil surroundings, Hamilton Zoo is the ideal destination for a memorable day out.
Boasting the largest walk-through aviary in New Zealand dedicated to native birds and plants, take a stroll through and a cheeky kaka may land close by. An experience not to be missed, go behind the scenes on a Face2Face encounter, or catch a 'Meet the Keeper' talk highlighting the characters and personalities of our animals, their feeding and enrichment.
Besides being a tourism and recreation park, Hamilton Zoo is committed to the conservation of animals and the environment by participating in various conservation and research projects, and by contributing to breeding programmes for endangered species.
Stop for a bite to eat at the Hungry Morepork Cafe, or dine al fresco at one of the Zoo's scenic picnic areas. Guided tours and behind the scenes animal encounters available by arrangement.
Opening hours
Monday to Sunday (except Christmas Day), 9am-5pm, last admission at 3.30pm.
Hamilton Zoo will introduce reduced winter opening hours following Queen’s Birthday Weekend.
From Tuesday, 6 June, the zoo will open at 9.30am and close at 4.30pm. The slight change in opening hours reflects lower visitor demand in the early morning and late afternoon during the unpredictable winter weather, and reduced daylight.
Summer opening hours remain at 9am to 5pm, and will recommence when daylight savings starts in spring.
Additional information
As well as the on-site cafe the zoo provides the following:
- Large car park
- Souvenir shop
- Children’s playground
- Barbecue areas
- Wheelchair access