Lion Close Encounter

Get closer than you ever imagined to the majestic Lions. You’ll learn how we care for these powerful big cats, discover their unique personalities, and see their incredible strength and presence up close. We can guarantee it will be a breathtaking experience you’ll be talking about for years.  

Go behind the scenes with an expert Zookeeper and help prepare the Lions’ enrichment. Learn how our Zookeepers care for them to ensure that the Lions have challenging and stimulating experiences every day. You’ll find out what makes Lions so special, why they are classed as vulnerable – and what you can do to help protect them.   

All Lion contact is ‘hands-off’, even for our Zookeepers. This means you won't get to touch 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.

Lion Close Encounter Details:

Age:

- 14 years old and up
- Anyone aged 14 – 17 must be accompanied by a paid participating adult

Time:
- 2:45pm Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays
- 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 4 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