The longest drink in town says goodbye...

Jelani pictured with his mum Rukiya. Photo / Natalie Slade

A week after Happy Feet's departure, another animal is leaving our shores.

18-month old giraffe Jelani from Auckland Zoo is crossing the Tasman to live in alongside other giraffes, rhinos, zebra and antelope at Melbourne's Weeirbee Open Range Zoo.

The 3.5 metre tall giraffe will be driven through the streets of Auckland to the port this afternoon.

Zoo staff warn motorists he's likely to pop his head up out of his crate at traffic lights.

Onboard giraffe luggage for the sea trip includes food, play-enrichment devices like boomer balls, and medical supplies.

Auckland Zoo spokesman, Nat Sullivan, says Jelani's dad Zabulu is the zoo's breeding male - and if they have more than one male they wouldn't have the space to continue breeding.