Auckland Zoo Christmas animals joined the festive celebrations as keepers prepared special holiday treats and enrichment activities to make Christmas Day joyful for every creature in their care. From icy meat baubles for big cats to gourmet frozen feasts for orangutans, the zoo was filled with seasonal cheer.
Sharing the joy on social media, Auckland Zoo wished everyone “Meri Kirihimete”, assuring visitors that while people enjoyed their holiday treats, zoo keepers were hard at work making sure the animals experienced Christmas magic too.
Big Cats Enjoy Icy Christmas Treats
Visitors were thrilled to see the zoo’s big cats embracing the festive spirit.
Tigers were given refreshing ice blocks and Christmas baubles made from blood and lactose-free pet milk — a perfect summer treat in New Zealand’s warm December weather.
To add extra excitement, keepers sprinkled ground cloves and ginger over their meat, introducing new seasonal scents. The lions, meanwhile, enthusiastically rolled around in rhinoceros dung, a surprising but highly enriching experience that encourages natural exploration and territorial scent marking. Donated Christmas trees added even more enrichment to their day.
Cool Treats for Giraffes, Otters & Porcupines
The giraffes received carrot and lettuce ice blocks, helping them stay cool while enjoying a nutritious snack.
Otters and porcupines tucked into ice baubles filled with tasty treats, combining fun, problem-solving, and feeding in one festive activity.
Gourmet Ice Blocks for Orangutans
For the orangutans, Christmas came with a gourmet twist. Their ice blocks were crafted from a delightful mix of rosemary, cherry tomatoes, peas, flowers, and herbal tea, offering both enrichment and nutrition while stimulating their curiosity.
Festive Fun for Kea, Takahē & Parakeets
- Kea explored a miniature Christmas tree decorated with peanut butter smears and ornaments made of grapes and cashews.
- Takahē cracked into festive crackers filled with grass, carrot sprinkles, and mealworms.
- African grey parakeets enjoyed pinecones carefully packed with tasty treats, encouraging natural foraging behavior.
Why Festive Enrichment Matters
Seasonal enrichment activities like these are more than just cute moments for visitors. They play a vital role in:
- Stimulating natural behaviors
- Supporting physical and mental well-being
- Keeping animals active, curious, and engaged
Auckland Zoo’s Christmas celebrations are a reminder that animal care goes far beyond feeding — it’s about creating meaningful, enriching experiences every day of the year.
Meri Kirihimete from Auckland Zoo — where even Christmas is designed with animal well-being at heart. 🎄✨
