Rockhampton Zoo

While Rockhampton Zoo might not be the first place you think of when planning a trip to Port Stephens, this small but charming zoo offers a delightful surprise for families and animal lovers. Set in lush gardens, it’s a hands-on, intimate experience where you can get up close to native Australian wildlife and exotic species. The zoo’s friendly keepers are passionate about conservation, and the relaxed atmosphere makes it a perfect stop for a few hours of discovery.

Highlights & What to See

• Koala Encounters: See these iconic marsupials up close – the zoo has a dedicated koala area where you can watch them snooze and munch on eucalyptus leaves. Check feeding times for a keeper talk.
• Free-Flight Bird Aviary: Walk through a walk-in aviary filled with colourful lorikeets, cockatoos, and other native birds. They may land on your shoulder if you’re lucky!
• Reptile House: A fascinating collection of snakes, lizards, and crocodiles, including saltwater crocodiles. Learn about their adaptations and conservation efforts.
• Dingo Sanctuary: Meet the Australian dingo in a naturalistic enclosure. The zoo participates in breeding programs to preserve this ancient breed.
• Farmyard Friends: A petting area for younger kids with goats, sheep, and guinea pigs – a hit for little ones.
• Nocturnal House: Explore the world of nocturnal creatures like bilbies, quolls, and gliders, with reversed day-night lighting so you can see them active.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan for about 2–3 hours to comfortably explore the zoo, attend keeper talks, and enjoy a picnic in the grounds. It’s compact enough to combine with a morning at the beach or a dolphin cruise in Port Stephens. Arrive early to avoid crowds and catch the animals at their most active.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Stephens: Just a short drive away, this stunning harbour offers dolphin-watching cruises, sandboarding at Stockton Beach, and the Tomaree Headland walk with panoramic views.
• Nelson Bay: The main hub of Port Stephens, with a lively marina, cafes, and the popular Shoal Bay beach – perfect for a post-zoo seafood lunch.
• Stockton Beach: Famous for its massive sand dunes, 4WD adventures, and the historic shipwreck of the SS City of Sydney. Combine a sandboarding session with your zoo visit.
• Myall Lakes National Park: A pristine wilderness of lakes, forests, and wetlands, ideal for kayaking, birdwatching, and bushwalking. It’s a nature lover’s paradise.
• Hunter Valley: About an hour’s drive inland, this world-renowned wine region offers cellar doors, gourmet food, and hot air ballooning. A great day trip from Port Stephens.

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