Zoo Stories

Hamilton Zoo is excited to welcome a new species to the Zoo whaanau. Say hello to the Caracal, a stunning medium-sized cat with origins in Africa, the Middle East and parts of Asia.

Our Tiger twins are now just over two weeks old, happy, healthy and growing fast.​

​But... what gender do you think they are?

Hamilton Zoo is delighted to announce the birth of two Sumatran Tiger cubs. Born to Kirana (mother) and Scout (father) in the early hours of 3 January 2024, the cubs are healthy and strong.

A new enclosure open now at Hamilton Zoo will underline the importance of managing pests to protect native species. Designed in the style of a classic tramping hut, the New Zealand Pest Exhibit is home to three ferrets, which are classified as introduced predators in Aotearoa.

Hamilton Zoo’s perfect match, Sumatran tigers Kirana, 9, and Scout,7, have been working hard to conserve their species, but not as hard as the zoo hoped.

It’s potentially a girl! Hamilton Zoo Zebra mare Marbles, 20, and stud Malawi, 11, are proud parents of a three-week-old foal.

The Director and staff of Hamilton Zoo are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Murray Powell (1931-2023), the founder of Hamilton Zoo.

Hamilton Zoo is excited to welcome three new residents: including a breeding male Sumatran tiger, Scout, a siamang gibbon Peggy and a red panda Sang.

The entrance to Te Kaaroro Nature Precinct, which connects Hamilton Zoo and Waiwhakareke Natural Heritage Park, is now award-winning. Designed by Edwards White Architects, the precinct entrance was one of three winners in the public architecture category at the 2023 Te Kahui Whaihanga New Zealand Institute of Architects Bay of Plenty and Waikato Awards held in Rotorua on Wednesday 14 June.

A big welcome to two of our newest residents! Hamilton Zoo is home to two young lace monitors.

Hamilton City Council today (18 April) approved a new place name for the area – Te Kaaroro Nature Precinct – that includes Hamilton Zoo, Waiwhakareke Natural Heritage Park, Hamilton Observatory and Everyday Eatery.

The new entry precinct for Hamilton Zoo and Waiwhakareke Natural Heritage Park officially opened yesterday (Friday 31 March), with a blessing from Te Haa o te Whenua o Kirikiriroa.