Brooklands Zoo

You are here > Home > Our District > Attractions > Brooklands Zoo > History

History

A BIRD'S EYE VIEW

Opened in 1965

Brooklands Zoo was officially opened to the public in 1965. Jack Goodwin, a former Director of Parks, envisaged a collection of aviary birds and small animals for the community to enjoy.

The New Plymouth Jaycee Chapter and the New Plymouth Cage Bird Club were key partners who contributed to the construction of the original enclosures and the acquisition of bird and animal stock.

The zoo has undergone many changes since 1965. Recent building developments have created more open natural habitats for the animals while allowing closer, unrestricted viewing for visitors.

Events

The zoo plays hosts to a number of special events every year. In the past children have enjoyed Zoomania where they made their own enrichments for the zoo animals (and see them get eaten and played with) and see some of the animals outside of their enclosures. Adults have been catered for too through the Council's annaul Guided Walks Programme where they get up close and personal with some of the zoo animals. 

Keep an eye out on our Events Calendar for upcoming events.