As the appointed auditors of Wellington Zoo, Moore Markhams Wellington Audit have been eagerly awaiting the Zoo’s latest attraction, two new female snow leopards all the way from Melbourne, Australia, called Asha and Manju. The pair are the only snow leopards currently in New Zealand.
An environmental engineer was hired to purpose build a $6 million dollar habitat, with places to cool off such as mist sprays and caves. Not dissimilar to their birthplace at Melbourne Zoo, the new enclosure is designed to mimic their natural habitat with plenty of room to explore and roam freely.
Originating from the mountain ranges and high country of Central Asia, there is only a 1 degree difference between their homeland and Wellington temperatures.
“Their presence is about raising awareness for conservation and endangered species”, said Wellington Zoo’s Julia Hoffman.
“We hope the arrival of Asha and Manju will promote discussion about climate change and the requirement to start acting now before further species become endangered, or even worse, extinct.”
The global drive to reduce carbon emissions and focus on sustainable business practices has gained much momentum in the past years. Especially for conservation-focused undertakings such as Wellington Zoo, it has meant additional opportunities to engage audiences in one of the most important conversations of a generation.
Putting word to deed, the Zoo’s continued focus on reducing their carbon footprint has allowed it to take first place within the industry.
“We are the world’s first Carbon Zero certified Zoo with all profits going back into conservation”, Julia said.
It's an exciting time for Wellington Zoo, with a range of upcoming promotions including the June welcome weekend with $5 adult and $2 children's tickets, as well as August Winter Wednesday which includes half-price tickets every Wednesday throughout the month of August.
To find out more about Wellington Zoo and the new arrival of Asha and Manju, click here.
To find out more about Audit and Assurance services offered at Moore Markhams, click here.