This summer, step back in time 200 million years and come face to face with New Zealand’s prehistoric dinosaurs!

Dinosaur Encounters run most weekends between 19 November 2016 and 5 February 2017. 

To register, choose a session from the drop down menu, enter the number of tickets you require, and click REGISTER.

There is designated parking for the event at the Everglade Drive entrance to the Gardens.  We recommend you avoid the traffic and car park queues and go straight to the Everglade entrance.  

Directions to Everglade Drive from the motoway  
Directions from the Hill Road entrance to the Gardens

Note the Everglade Drive carpark gates are locked at 4.30pm each day, please ensure your vehicle exits before this time.

Dinosaur Encounters take approximately 20 minutes and are free to attend.  There is a fee to enter the ‘Dino Zone’ between shows ($5 per child, $2 per adult). Activities in the Dino Zone include dinosaur petting, dino selfies, sieving for a fossil shark tooth to take home and the chance to get up close to a nest of Tyrannosaurus Rex eggs!

Face painting, balloons and dinosaur merchandise will also be available for purchase.

FAQs

Are there ID or minimum age requirements to enter the event?

We advise parental discretion for under five year olds – but we may be exaggerating the fright factor just a little. The dinosaurs are pretty friendly and the shows are not intended to be scary. We're leaving it to parents to decide as they know their kids best.

If your little one is not impressed with the show, you can take a walk around the Gardens instead, you won't be locked into the show area.

What are my transport/parking options for getting to and from the event?

Our main carpark fills up quickly on weekends.  To avoid the traffic and queues, we recommend you use the designated parking at the Everglade Drive entrance to the gardens.  

Directions to Everglade Drive from the motorway 
Directions from the Hill Road entrance to the Gardens

Note that gates to the Everglade Drive entrance close at 4.30pm – please ensure your car is removed by then.

For public transport options, visit at.govt.nz for train and bus timetables.  The Gardens are approximately 20 minutes walk from Southmall, Manurewa.

What can I bring into the event?

We recommend bringing sunscreen, hats, snacks and water.  You are welcome to bring a picnic to the Gardens, or you can purchase meals at onsite Cafe Miko at the visitor centre.

Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event?

No. This is a paper-less event, no need to print your email or ticket.

Can I update my registration information?

Yes, you can cancel or modify your registration here on the Eventbrite website.  If you have any problems with this, let us know: botanic.gardens@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

Visit aucklandbotanicgardens.co.nz for more information.