The Master Plan for Taronga and Taronga Western Plains Zoos is a 12-year program to revolutionise facilities at both Zoos and expand their ability to participate in world-class conservation, education and wildlife care programs.
Started in 2000, the plan is the most comprehensive rebuilding of the Zoos since Taronga opened in 1916 and Western Plains Zoo in 1977.
At Taronga Zoo, new mega-exhibits have already come on-line with the amazing Australian journey that is ‘Backyard to Bush’, the fascinating junglethemed ‘” ‘Rainforest Trail’ and the gigantic showcase of the wildlife of the southern oceans, ‘Great Southern Oceans’.
As testament to the Zoo’s unique wildlife experience, Taronga Zoo won the 2010 best ‘Major Attraction’ at the NSW Tourism Industry Awards and also the 2011 'Best Major Attraction' at the Qantas Australian Tourism Awards.
Recently Completed Projects
Taronga Zoo’s Main Entrance is now open. The heritage-listed Main Entrance building has been restored to its former glory and new facilities and services include a new Zoo Shop, café, information and ticketing services. Zoo Friends also have a new residence in the historic Tram Shed building opposite the Edwardian Main Entrance, and this space has been transformed into a bright and welcoming area exclusively for them.
The Main Entrance Plaza is close to the car park and the bus bay making access to the Zoo easier.
The Main Entrance Plaza is a free for visitors and with the new ticketing process, visitors can browse the Zoo Shop or grab a coffee before heading to the Zoo gateway where tickets are validated for entry. Visitors can now relax, plan their day and enjoy the new facilities before they embark on their Taronga adventure.
Chimpanzee Sanctuary
The renovation of the 30-year-old Chimpanzee exhibit deliver great facilities for a growing group that includes several strong male chimps. The newly renovated exhibit now includes giant towers up to 12 metre high, a network of climbing ropes and hammocks for the chimps to enjoy, and new vantage points where visitors can get closer to the animals. See more here.
Tasmanian Devil Exhibit
Supporting our Tasmanian Devil breeding program, this new exhibit features outdoor and indoor viewing areas and allows visitors to see human impact on these creatures and how people can help Tasmanian Devil conservation.
Parent Room
Centrally located near the Taronga Food Market, the Parent Room is home to Taronga Zoo’s new private breast feeding rooms, baby change stations, baby food warming facilities and accessible toilets.
Gibbon Lawns and Viewing Deck
Incorporating new picnic areas, children’s play sculptures and native flora plantations, this newly developed area in the centre of the Zoo will provide a great place for visitors to rest and recharge during their Zoo visit.
While you’re at the Zoo, take a stroll on Taronga’s new scenic boardwalk between the African Safari and Big Cats Trail. The new circulation link takes visitors on a meandering walk through the treetops with spectacular harbour views from the African Waterhole past the Himalayan Tahrs perched on their rocky exhibit down to the Snow Leopard Mountain. Read more here.
Current Construction
Backyard to Bush
From the 1st May 2012 the playground and water area of Backyard to Bush will be closed for some exiciting renovations, however kids can still explore the farmyard, the Backyard to Bush house and bush area. Backyard Buddies, Farm Yard Feed and Spider Talk are still on every day.
New tour - Nura Diya
Enjoy a journey through Taronga Zoo as you hear stories of Australian wildlife told through the perspective of an Aboriginal guide, with tales of their shared history with the animals and land.
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