Growing up a trip to the Auckland Zoo was a wonderful outing, with memories that lasted a life time. I still have a picture of me and some others kids, on the back of an elephant which used to walk through the zoo. Remember those days?
Jane Healy has been the Auckland Zoo's communications manager, since 2002. She tells me it's the best office in the world. I believe her, what other job in New Zealand is there, where you could look out your window and see so many animals and even dinosaurs. Also she says, she gets to work with highly skilled people - passionate about making a difference and sharing their knowledge and love for wildlife and the environment and that's why I'm still here says Jane.
Tell us about the Zoo's amazing Dinosaur exhibition?
Our 2026 Dinosaur Discovery Track is a very cool immersive educational experience featuring 20+ animatronic replicas (that move and roar) from the Cretaceous and Jurassic periods - 200-66 million years ago. They're on loan from world-leading dinosaur creators, The Dinosaur Company. Dinosaurs inspire so much curiosity about wildlife, and for this year's winter activation we're super excited to have sauropods including Brachiosaurus -that represent the largest animals to have ever walked this Earth!
How has the Auckland Zoo changed over the years?
Auckland Zoo (now 103 years old and proudly part of Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland Unlimited and the wider Council which has evolved enormously. This includes physically, in the mahi we do on site and out in the wild and especially here in Aotearoa, in our science of animal care, and in how we serve our communities. As a wildlife conservation science and community focused organisation, our mission is to bring people together to build a future for wildlife. We're all a part (not apart) from nature, and vitally, Auckland Zoo is a place of connection and a life-enhancing environment where people can connect with te taiao and each other.
What are the things you like most about Ponsonby?
It's a colourful suburb with history, a fun place to wander with lots of good cafes and recycled clothing shops. For me, Ponsonby Road itself also holds fond memories from younger days and lots of dates, birthday celebrations, music gigs and staying up all night!
Where would your dream holiday be internationally?
Somewhere beautiful and tropical and to swim, snorkel, read and relax, and be totally pampered!
What's on your to do bucket list?
Lots! First up - the Milford Track (that we got flooded out of years ago); seeing more of Aotearoa; getting back on the tennis court, visiting Ireland with family to discover more about my heritage.
What project are you looking forward at the moment?
Getting raised garden beds in my back garden sorted so I can grow more herbs and fresh veges.
What is the best thing about your age right now?
Less sweating the small stuff and seeing the extraordinary in the ordinary more and more.
What are the things that really motivate you?
Family, friends, and work colleagues (every day), te taiao/the natural world we're all part of, and the fact that I am so lucky to live here in Aotearoa.
Which item of clothing is it, that you can't live without?
Tee shirts and tank tops!
What superpowers would you like to have?
Flight. A photographic memory would also be very handy.
Are you a hand shake or hug kind of person?
I do love a hug, but I'm both - as it depends on who and the situation!
What is your immediate go to for your your comfort food?
Avocado and marmite on toast or fish and chips.
What is one of the best things your parents taught you?
Be Kind!
Do you travel light or heavy?
Heavy (I like to have options), but I'm working on less is more.
What are some of the best things about where you live?
Point Chevalier. The beach, green spaces, Te Tokaroa (Meola Reef walk), friendly community vibe, and closeness to the Zoo are just a few things I really love about it.
What job would you like to do, other than being the Auckland Zoo's communications manager?
A horticulturist/landscape architect and spending lots of time in life-enhancing nature.
If you were reincarnated, what would you like to be an animal or a human?
A dolphin.
If you could change one law or policy in New Zealand, what would it be?
Public conservation land is for people and nature. Safeguarding it is the best investment we can make for the benefit of all!
