Otter Close Encounter

Get up close with the cheeky Asian Small-Clawed Otter brothers in this lively Close Encounter that’s all about curious noses and busy paws. It’s a bit noisy; it’s a bit fishy, and it’s guaranteed to make you smile.  

Go behind the scenes with an expert Zookeeper and help prepare the Otters’ enrichment and watch as they try and figure it out! Learn how we care for them to ensure that the romp (the word for a group of Otters) has challenging and stimulating experiences every day. You’ll find out what makes Otters so special, why they are classed as vulnerable – and what you can do to help protect them.   

All Otter contact is ‘hands-off’, even for our Zookeepers. Otters are cute, but they're not pets; they're wild animals. This means you won't get to pat them or feed them out of your hands. All our Close Encounters are animal-led; it is up to the animals whether they choose to participate and how long they will stay during your time with them.   

10% of proceeds from all Close Encounters help us save wildlife and wild places through projects supported by Te Nukuao Wellington Zoo Partners in Conservation Fund.

Otter Close Encounter Details:

Important information:
- Please note that participants on this Close Encounter may handle fish or other seafood

Age:
- 6 years old and up
- Anyone aged 6 – 13 must be accompanied by a paid participating adult

Time:
- 2:45pm every day
- Please arrive at the Zoo at least 30 minutes ahead of your scheduled Close Encounter time

Cost:
- $129 per person including free Zoo entry
- If you’re a Zoo Crew member, you get a 15% discount off this and all other Close Encounters

Participants:
- A maximum of 2 people can participate in this Close Encounter
- If your group is less than the maximum allowed, other participants may also join you for this experience

Duration:
- 30 minutes
- You are welcome to explore the Zoo before or after your Close Encounter

Bookings:
- Please book your Close Encounter in advance
- If you'd like to give someone else a Close Encounter as a gift, purchase a Gift Card and your lucky recipient can redeem this when they book their experience
- If your first choice isn't available, please check other Encounter availability

Accessibility:
- Please note that this experience is not suitable for those with mobility issues
- If you have other accessibility needs, please contact us to ensure we can welcome you on this Close Encounter

Terms & Conditions:
- Please ensure you wear long pants and fully closed-toe shoes (no Crocs)

- Please read the full terms and conditions for this experience on the booking page