AUCKLAND CITY COUNCIL

MEDIA RELEASE

12 March 2007

Earn your stripes at the Zoo

Race along to the zoo these school holidays (6- 22 April) and go crazy learning about all things spotty, stripey, blotchy and well-disguised – also known as camouflage.

Have you ever wondered how a cheetah's spots look like sun through trees or why a tiger's stripes make it almost impossible to spy in long grass? Have you seen a twig in the bush and realised it was actually a stick insect? These are all examples of ways animals use camouflage, a tool to help ensure the survival of species.

During the three interactive daily shows – 10am (a pre-school show), 10.45am and 11.45am, cheetah detective, Furrlock Bones, will enlist help to solve a mystery using clues left behind by some well-camouflaged animals. But be prepared, Detective Bones has been reading up on camouflage and is a master of disguise – he may not be what or who he seems to be.

Although it’s the bigger kids on holiday from school, the zoo is a popular destination for littlies as well, and is launching a special pre-school show, which will be on daily at 10am. This show has been designed with assistance from the zoo’s new early childhood education team and is tailored made for young children to learn about camouflage and have some fun.

Along with the daily shows, there will be free camouflage face painting, spot prizes, giveaways and the chance to win a copy of Open Season on DVD courtesy of Sony. Get up close and personal with some of your favourite animals during the popular encounters and then test your new-found camouflage knowledge as your explore the zoo and spot the animals.

The April school holiday programme is supported by Newstalk ZB. Normal zoo admission applies - adults $18.00, children $9.00 (Aged 4-15 years), senior citizens $14.00 (with ID), students $14.00 (with student ID). Family rates are also available. For more information, visit www.aucklandzoo.co.nzor phone (09) 360-3805.

ENDS

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