Category: Zoos

At Jetpets, we’re incredibly proud to have participated in the recent Zoo and Aquarium Association (ZAA) Conference, held in the vibrant and wildlife-rich city of Darwin. This annual event brings together professionals, advocates, and organisations from across New Zealand and Australia who share a deep commitment to animal welfare, conservation, and education.

This year was particularly special for us, as our National Corporate Services Manager, Sally Graham, had the honour of presenting at the conference. Sally’s involvement was a testament to Jetpets’ long-standing relationship with the zoo and aquarium community, and our shared mission to ensure the safe and ethical transport of animals, both domestic and exotic.

Supporting a Passionate Community

We consider it a great privilege to work alongside the dedicated individuals and organisations in the zoo and aquarium community. Every year, we’re inspired by the passionate work being done—from species conservation projects to breeding programs, educational outreach, and habitat preservation.

At Jetpets, our role in this ecosystem is to ensure that animals are transported with the highest levels of care, safety, and comfort. Whether it’s helping to relocate a rare species as part of a conservation effort, or supporting routine transfers between facilities for health or breeding reasons, we treat every journey with the utmost responsibility.

Our Commitment to Animal Welfare

Animal welfare isn’t just a part of what we do—it’s at the heart of our operations. We partner with leading veterinarians, animal handlers, and welfare experts to develop travel protocols that reduce stress and ensure the well-being of each animal during transit.

Looking Ahead

Being part of the ZAA Conference in Darwin was not only an opportunity to share insights but also to learn from the inspiring work being done throughout our Trans -Tasman region. The connections and collaborations formed at events like this help push the boundaries of what’s possible in animal care and conservation.

We extend our thanks to the ZAA and the wider zoo and aquarium community for their continued trust and partnership. We look forward to working together for many years to come, championing animal welfare and making a positive impact—one journey at a time.

Auckland Zoo has recently welcomed three four-year-old female lions who travelled from an Australian Zoo with Jetpets.

Twin sisters Aziza and Kibibi and half-sister Ilola made the journey to Auckland Zoo in September, as a part of the international zoo breeding and advocacy programme for this increasingly threatened African big cat.

Photo Credit: Auckland Zoo

While COVID-19 has halted international travel plans for many of us, the team at Jetpets worked closely with both zoos to ensure that this important animal transfer was made possible. Transporting exotic animals is a highly complex process, and many months of planning, obtaining permits and following strict Government processes were followed to ensure a safe and successful transfer of the trio.

Upon arrival into Auckland, the lionesses began their quarantine, a standard MPI and biosecurity requirement for all new exotic animal arrivals into New Zealand. They have now completed their quarantine and are enjoying their landscaped habitat at Auckland Zoos Africa Safari Track.

Auckland Zoo’s carnivore team leader, Lauren Booth, said she and her team are delighted to have welcomed the trio.

“Having three very clever young girls in Aziza, Kibibi and Ilola is both daunting and very exciting for us. We know they’ll have a lot to teach us, and we are really looking forward to getting to know each of them and their unique personalities,” said Lauren.

Photo Credit: Auckland Zoo

While Auckland remains in lockdown, Auckland Zoo is currently closed to visitors. In the meantime, you can keep updated on how Aziza, Kibibi and Ilola are settling in via their social channels.

You can also watch the video below for more information on their exciting journey.