Whio/Blue Duck Aviary

BUILD

At Whenua Waotū/The High Country habitat in Auckland Zoo’s Te Wao Nui, the blue duck, or whio, is given a space designed to mirror its natural environment – the fast-flowing streams of New Zealand's mountainous regions. This habitat is a key feature of the zoo's efforts to showcase New Zealand’s unique wildlife while highlighting critical conservation efforts. The streams that weave through the whio’s enclosure mimic their native habitat, providing the ideal conditions for these endangered birds to thrive and demonstrate their distinct adaptations to fast-moving water.

The entire design of the enclosure has been meticulously planned to ensure the ducks' well-being, with flowing water and rocky surroundings replicating the South Island’s wild, untamed streams. This naturalistic approach not only benefits the whio but also offers an immersive experience for visitors, allowing them to connect with one of New Zealand’s rarest species. In their protected space, the whio are able to exhibit natural behaviors, reinforcing the importance of preserving their habitats in the wild.

Fabric Structures worked alongside Auckland Zoo to help create a secure yet open environment, contributing to the design and fabrication of the durable mesh structures that maintain the habitat's integrity. The enclosure is part of a larger vision within Te Wao Nui, showcasing the high country’s biodiversity and emphasizing the role of humans as kaitiaki, or guardians, of these ecosystems.