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Lions roam among visitors’ cars in Orana’s drive-through lion reserve in the 1970s

Our History

Since 1976, Orana Wildlife Park has helped protect endangered species, deliver nationally significant breed-for-release programmes, and inspire visitors through education and unique wildlife experiences. This long-term work depends on our community, visitors, audience and partners who share our commitment to protecting Aotearoa’s natural heritage.

Read our 50th Anniversary press release

Key Moments

A black and white photo from opening day showing a car pulling up beside a caravan to purchase a ticket

Opening Day

25 September 1976

Drive-thru Lion Reserve

Drive-thru Lion Reserve

1976-1995

Stage One Expansion

Stage One Expansion

1981

Giraffe Feeding Began

Giraffe Feeding Began

1982

Walkthrough Aviary Opened

Walkthrough Aviary Opened

1984

Kiwi House Opened

Kiwi House Opened

1984

Stage Two Expansion

Stage Two Expansion

1987

Kopje Rock Opened

Kopje Rock Opened

1991

Lion Encounter

Lion Encounter

1999-2023

Rhino Encounter Began

Rhino Encounter Began

1999

First Rhino Calf in NZ Born

First Rhino Calf in NZ Born

1999

Kea Aviary Opened

Kea Aviary Opened

2009

Great Ape Centre Opened

Great Ape Centre Opened

2015

We Joined the Kākāriki Karaka Breeding Programme

We Joined the Kākāriki Karaka Breeding Programme

2017

Frog House Opened

Frog House Opened

2020

We Turned 50 and Rebranded

We Turned 50 and Rebranded

2026