
Australia is home to a large number of unique wildlife, both native and international. Hunter Valley Wildlife Park (formerly known as Hunter Valley Zoo) is a great place to encounter a wide variety of wildlife in Australia. It is about an hour’s drive from Newcastle and one of the best things to do with children in the Hunter Valley. The park houses primates, Australian native mammals, African animals, reptiles, Australian birds, South American animals, and more. Hunter Valley Wildlife Park offers an immersive experience where you can get up close to the animals. For convenient and comfortable group travel to this amazing destination, consider bus hire.
The park is open daily from 9 am to 4 pm, with the exception of Christmas Day. It is always a good idea to check their official website for the most current hours and any holiday closures. Parking is free, and there are also free barbeque facilities at the picnic grounds, which are available on a first-come, first-served basis. You can bring your lunch and make a day of it. Snacks and refreshments are also available on-site, along with a gift shop. It is a popular place to hold kids’ birthday parties and educational group events.
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1. Daily Keeper Talks and Shows
Daily keeper talks and shows at Hunter Valley Wildlife Park let you interact with and learn about the animals. During these presentations, visitors can see animals being fed and learn fascinating facts from the keepers. The schedule of daily talks and shows can change depending on weather and animal welfare, so be sure to check the daily schedule upon arrival.
2. Animal Encounters
Hunter Valley Wildlife Park offers fascinating animal encounters. It is a great way to meet an animal and get up close and personal with your favorite creatures. Encounters are available with a variety of animals, including meerkats, marmosets, black and white ruffed lemurs, and binturongs, as well as lions, giraffes, and more. These encounters are a fantastic opportunity to take pictures and ask questions to a zookeeper. All animal encounters have limited spots and must be booked in advance online.
3. Feed the Animals
Feeding the animals is a great way to meet the residents of Hunter Valley Wildlife Park. You can buy animal food at the reception. There is a walk-through interactive yard where you can feed birds, farmyard animals, and kangaroos.
4. Picnic Facilities
The Hunter Valley Wildlife Park has beautiful picnic grounds with free barbeque facilities. While it is free of charge, remember that these facilities are first-come, first-served. You can bring your lunch and spend a wonderful afternoon in the picnic area.
Plan Your Perfect Day Out
Hunter Valley Wildlife Park provides an unforgettable experience for families, groups, and individuals eager to connect with wildlife. From interactive talks to up-close animal encounters and relaxing picnic spots, there’s something for everyone. Make sure to plan your visit to take full advantage of all the amazing activities on offer. For a stress-free journey for your entire group, consider making arrangements for bus hire, ensuring everyone arrives comfortably and ready for a day of discovery.
What animals can you see at Hunter Valley Wildlife Park?
The park is home to primates, African animals, Australian natives, reptiles, South American species, and birds, including lions, giraffes, meerkats, kangaroos, and lemurs.
Are there interactive experiences available at the park?
Yes. Visitors can book animal encounters with species like meerkats, marmosets, lemurs, binturongs, lions, and giraffes, as well as join daily keeper talks and feeding sessions.
Can you feed the animals at Hunter Valley Wildlife Park?
Yes. Animal food is available at reception, and visitors can feed birds, farmyard animals, and kangaroos in designated interactive areas.
What facilities are available for families and groups?
The park has picnic grounds with free BBQ facilities, a gift shop, snacks, and event spaces ideal for kids’ birthday parties and educational visits.
What are the opening hours of Hunter Valley Wildlife Park?
The park is open daily from 9 am to 4 pm, except Christmas Day. Always check the official website for seasonal or holiday updates.