Gecko Enclosure Update

The moko kākariki (Wellington green geckos/barking geckos) are on the move!  

The geckos came to us originally as part of a 'breed for release programme', and have thrilled many visitors to ZEALANDIA, in their nursery enclosures on the Round Lawn.  

While it is sad to see them go, they will now be realising their full potential with several of the animals going on to become part of the establishing population out at Mana Island later this year. The rest of the animals will still be able to be seen at Ngā Manu and the Wellington Zoo where they will continue to be bred for release on Mana Island and Matiu Somes Island, and, in a few years, within ZEALANDIA!  

This shift will enable ZEALANDIA to continue focusing on our efforts to create great habitat for wild geckos. It is also timely as the captive population is outgrowing the space we have available.  

The geckos will be moved Thursday 8 August, so visitors will be no longer able to spot them in the enclosures. Watch this space though, as we are moving our focus to enhancement of areas in the sanctuary as lizard habitat. We hope that in time they will be able to be seen alongside key tracks and trails.