Zoo & Aquarium Association of Australasia

Zoo & Aquarium Association of Australasia

The National Aquarium of New Zealand is an accredited member of the Zoo and Aquarium Association of Australasia

Getting ZAA accreditation involves a thorough process where zoos, aquariums, sanctuaries, and wildlife parks must provide compelling evidence on their operations, policies and the experiences of their animals. This assessment goes beyond the minimum legal government requirements placed on zoos and aquariums, using the Five Domains model to reach a higher standard and continuously support positive animal welfare).

ZAA represents the collective voice of zoos, aquariums, sanctuaries and wildlife parks across Australasia, it’s members enhance the role of individual zoos and aquariums in conserving wildlife. (ZAA 

We at National Aquarium of New Zealand care deeply for all our creatures big and small. So, when we’re talking about animal welfare, we refer to each animal’s experiences which are assessed across the Five Domains which are measured as positive, neutral or negative states.

What are the Five Domains?

A science-based tool for assessing and supporting animal welfare. First we assess the first four domains (Nutrition, Environment, Health and Behaviour), which builds us a picture of the fifth domain (Mental Domain) and the overall welfare of the animal.

1. Nutrition: Ensuring our animals are all well hydrated and have access to a balanced and engaging diet.
2. Environment: Understanding the environmental needs of each animal that influence their natural sensory responses, to provide a habitat where they can feel at home.
3. Health: Supporting our animals’ physical health, through regular check-ups and veterinary care, to ensure that our animals can engage in a range of positive experiences.
4. Behaviour: Providing opportunities for our animals to engage in natural behaviours, self-generated actions and purposeful activities, like play, courtship and foraging.
5. Mental: Understanding, based on the assessment of the other four domains, the various experiences that make up the mental state of each animal.