Auckland Zoo

About

Auckland Zoo sits on the edge of Western Springs, and it's built to be walked slowly. Te Wao Nui takes you through six New Zealand habitats in sequence, from coast to forest to the night-dwelling species most people never see in the wild. The South East Asia Jungle Track is the other standout, a humid, dense stretch that houses the zoo's tigers and orangutans. Keeper talks run through the day at set times and are worth planning around, since they're where you learn something rather than just look. Paths are pram and wheelchair friendly throughout. It's an easy half day with young kids and a full one if you stop for everything. Allow more time than you think in school holidays, when the central sections get busy from mid-morning. There's a cafe on site and plenty of lawn if you'd rather bring your own.