Orana’s 50th Birthday
On Saturday 25 September, 1976 Orana Wildlife Park (Orana Park at the time) opened the gates to the public at 10am. By 2pm the queue to enter the Park stretched 7km, with the last cars coming through in the dark!
On opening day the animals of Orana consisted of 18 lions which included 6 cubs, 2 tiger cubs, 2 donkeys, 2 camels, 2 water buffalo and two Shetland ponies. The main attraction on opening was the first drive through lion reserve in New Zealand.
Our 50th Birthday
Over the spring holidays, beginning 25 September 2026, we celebrated our birthday with the opening of our 50th Photo Exhibition. Throughout the holidays we also had a bouncy castle, giant bubbles and face painting to bring a little bit of birthday magic.
Orana’s 50th Anniversary Photo Exhibition
Featuring 50 key moments from across the Parks history, plus 10 animal 'Legends of Orana'. From the first animals arriving through to our biggest project ‘The Great Ape Centre’, you’ll see some of the key moments that have shaped our history.
The main exhibition is located at the Zambesi picnic area (near the zebra habitat).
Then and Now photo Trail
Explore the Park and discover what Orana looked like in the early days. The 12 images are located throughout the Park and are placed in a similar position so you can see how the Park has changed.
Orana’s 50th Anniversary Photo exhibition will be on display until at least September 2027, with the potential to remain on display even longer.
Stamp Trail
Grab a stamp card from reception, as you explore the Park, there are five locations to stop by and ‘build’ your stamp. The image is made up of different layers of colour, stamped onto card.
The first stamp is located at the Volunteer Centre (opposite the entrance), we recommend this as the first stamp as the blue ink is the strongest colour.
After visiting all five locations the full picture will be revealed.
Check back over the year for new events happening to celebrate our birthday.
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