AusLeisure

Hamilton Zoo has revealed that it welcomed more than 137,000 visitors in the 2010-2011 financial year, 22,000 more than in the 2009-2010 financial period.

Staff at the the Hamilton City Council owned zoo attribute the surge in visitors to new attractions such as the popular meerkats, the weka walk-through exhibit and baby rhinoceros Bunty- as well as continued good patronage by school groups.

The meerkats and their antics and the naming of Bunty through a widely publicised competition drew considerable media attention and engaged the public, said Hamilton Zoo Director Dr Stephen Standley.

With difficult economic conditions continuing to effect household budgets, Council and zoo staff believe the facility is attracting more local visitors who see it as a more costeffective outing for families.

Standley explained "we're really pleased with the uptake of the visitors' annual pass which we launched in October, and we are certain local people are using these passes to maximise their opportunities to visit the zoo."

Standley added that the increased visitor numbers were also a reflection of the hard work of his staff, and their commitment to their jobs.

3rd December 2010 - GIANT PANDAS FOR NEW ZEALAND?

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