30 September 2005

Wellington Zoo’s Green Machine

Wellington Zoo is walking the conservation talk with the release of its 2004/05 Annual Report which is online at www.wellingtonzoo.com rather than in print.

The Annual Report reflects a solid year of operation as the Trust moves into its third year of management.

“Our performance in the 2004/05 financial year was good. We are seeing our vision of a magical place of learning and fun beginning to be turned into reality for the increasing number of visitors to the Zoo and external conservation efforts we are involved in,” says Wellington Zoo Chief Executive Officer, Alison Lash.

Wellington Zoo has seen the visitor experience expand with offerings of Close Encounters, Roving Guides and special events as well as the usual programme of sleepovers and tours. Eva Dixon’s Café has continued to help us welcome our visitors and its own regular patrons. However, the increasing number of experiences means increased pressure on staff and resources and the Zoo has plans in place to meet demand.

Involvement in the Australasian Species Management Programme (ASMP) has seen the Zoo import new animals including its Sun Bear, Sean and six Meerkats. This involvement has also led to animal births, such as the critically endangered Campbell Island Teal, which has achieved the goal of increasing global species numbers.

“Our work within the ASMP means that we can practise what we preach; the Zoo can have a positive impact on learning about conservation and on actually taking action to increase numbers of animal species,” says Alison.

The Zoo’s School Room continues to heavily promote conservation with more than 12,000 primary, secondary and tertiary students enrolling for classroom sessions and tours of the Zoo.

While Wellington Zoo has experienced a good year, the challenges are not over yet as a need to redevelop areas of the Zoo means funding is going to be a priority in the months ahead.

ENDS

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