Wellington Zoo celebrates native wildlife

The new precinct will be home to korora little blue penguins among other native NZ animals. Photo / Supplied via Wellington Zoo

Wellington Zoo is celebrating native wildlife as they open a new precinct in time for Labour Weekend.

Meet the Locals He Tuku Aroha is a new area described as the zoo's "love story to Aotearoa New Zealand".

It would be home to korora little blue penguins, sheep, kunekune pigs, bees, eels, grand and Otago skinks, Maud Island frogs and kea.

Wellington Zoo chief executive Karen Fifield said the new area was a journey through New Zealand "going from the coast to the farm through the bush and culminating in the mountains".

"We're re-opening a large part of the Zoo that visitors haven't been able to access for some time, and we're thrilled that we can do it with Meet the Locals He Tuku Aroha, which has been a labour of love for our Zoo team," she said.

Wellington Zoo community engagement general manager Amy Hughes said the zoo built four habitats in one area.

"We wanted each area to have a distinct look and feel, but for all of it to feel connected, just like the different parts of New Zealand connect together," she said.

The entire area was also surrounded by 4000 native plants to attract native wildlife.

Meet the Locals He Tuku Aroha was the final project of a 10 year redevelopment plan in which the zoo had rebuilt most of the premises.

The opening weekend will include live music, face painting games and a photo booth.