Wellington zoo is celebrating native wildlife with its newest precinct – Meet the locals He Tuku Aroha.
It had its official opening today for dignitaries, staff and sponsors today and will be open to the public this Labour Weekend.
Wellington Zoo chief executive Karen Fifield says the new experience has been a "labour of love" in a large part of the zoo that's been closed for years.
"I think people have forgotten that this valley even exists at Wellington Zoo, so to have it finally open and renewed and refreshed like it is, is really exciting."
It's home to kororā little blue penguins, sheep, kunekune pigs, bees, eels, grand and Otago skinks, Maud Island frogs, kea and rabbits.
The $6 million precinct is the final project of the zoo's 10-year redevelopment plan, during which time they've rebuilt most of the zoo.
Ms Fifield likens it to a "zoo revolution".
"It was really fitting in my mind to have this as the final culmination of all those years of work."
The kunekune pigs were a clear favourite at the opening as they mingled with the crowd.
They're also a favourite of the zoo's manager of animal care, Mauritz Basson.
"They're quite stunning little beasts and all of them have got their own personalities and characters."
The precinct's opening weekend will be celebrated with a host of talks and activities.
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