About Us

Pouakai Zoo was founded in 1976 as a wildlife reserve and was turned into a zoo in 1987 by first owners Gary and Maria Faigan. The zoo was then owned by Rex and Rosemary Bloor for approximately 4 years, followed by Tony (Bart) Hartley and Fiona Carson who introduced the big cats. XinCai Liu and Adam Can Horne took over the zoo on 3rd February 2014.

With a history of nearly 40 years, the zoo has proudly been a positive part of the Taranaki community. It will continue striving to create great memories for its visitors. The zoo is privately owned, operated and self-financed. Welcome to Pouakai Zoo!

Click here to see a map of the zoo.

Read a newspaper article about the Horne family zoo adventure!
Hamilton family buys a zoo, tiny monkeys and all Waikato Times, 2014

Feedback

"Best day we've had as a family ever. The encounters are amazing and the kids just loved everything. Well worth the trip."
Catherine, 2015

"Great zoo. Loved how close the lions were. The highlight of my New Plymouth trip."
Ash, 2015

"Fantastic. Well priced. We'll definitely be back."
Hayley, 2015

"Great day today!"
Debbie and Blair, 2015

"Junior zookeeper programme is fantastic, had a great day, thank you so much. Highly recommended."
Shelley, 2014