New Years 2023

New Years 2023

New Year's at Taronga

Celebrate the new year in a WILD way. Tickets are on sale now!

Welcome in the new year with us at the most unique harbour location, Taronga! Bid farewell to 2023 and celebrate the arrival of 2024 with family and friends overlooking the majestic Sydney Harbour.  

Choose from four ticketed areas within the beautiful Taronga Zoo grounds, each area provides a unique experience for couples and individuals and a fun, safe and stress-free atmosphere for families.  

Bring along your own picnic or choose from a variety of food and drink available on-site, then enjoy an evening of entertainment under the stars, and the spectacular views of the fireworks on Sydney Harbour. 

Platinum is a new offering located at the Taronga Event Centre in N’Galawa Terrace. All your food is included in your ticket price including roving canapes and a delectable food station.  This is an over 18’s event only. 

Your ticket has the power to protect. Taronga is not-for-profit. Every dollar you spend saves wildlife, including helping us return more than 50,000 threatened animals to the wild, caring for thousands of injured wildlife at our Wildlife Hospitals, and breeding threatened species to insure against extinction. 

Pre-Sale: Thursday 5th October  

General Public On Sale: Friday 6th October 

NYE at Taronga Zoo - Silver Seating
NYE at Taronga Zoo - Silver Seating
NYE at Taronga Zoo - Diamond Seating
NYE at Taronga Zoo - Diamond Seating
NYE at Taronga Zoo - Gold Seating
NYE at Taronga Zoo - Gold Seating

Event details

When: Sunday 31 December 2023 

Gates Open: Silver from 6pm | Gold from 6:30pm | Diamond from 7pm | Platinum from 7:30pm 

Cost:  

  • Adult from $225 

  • Children (4-5) from $115 

  • Concession from $198 

  • Children under 4 years are Free 

Zoo Friends take 10% off ticket price 

Where: Taonga Zoo, Sydney  

Tickets: Tickets are on sale soon via Ticketek! 

Got questions?  

View FAQ’s!

Ticket types

Diamond - SOLD OUT

Diamond Seating - SOLD OUT

Diamond Reserve is located on the Harbour View Lawn on the western side on the Zoo. Here, guests will enjoy exclusive and best views of Sydney Harbour and Bridge for the fireworks in an intimate area. Diamond patrons will be given a wristband upon entry for VIP access to the Diamond area. Please note, this section is non-accessible due to its location which includes a set of stairs. 

Gates open: from 7pm via the Zoo’s main entrance gate. 

Cost: $660 per person* 

*Children are welcome in the Diamond area and require a ticket. Due to the tricky terrain, we strongly suggest any bubs and kids who are ‘on-the-move’ are better suited to the Gold or Silver areas. 

Inclusions: 

  • Exclusive and best views of Sydney Harbour and Bridge for the fireworks in an intimate area  

  • Secure parking on-site or complimentary park and ride service from Spit Junction. Parking is included in the price of a DIAMOND ticket. Must be booked as Add On. Limited to 1 Parking Pass between 2 tickets. 

  • Live entertainment 

  • 1 x Premium food hamper and the choice between 1 x bottle of wine or 4 x beers to share between 2 people  

  • Drink service from your seat via online ordering system! 

  • FREE same day Zoo entry* 

  • A chance to experience some of Taronga’s wildlife until dark  

  • Zoo gift bag

  • VIP chair in the designated Diamond area – please note this is an unreserved area.

*Your ticket includes free same day Zoo entry on Sunday 31st December. Please note, the Zoo will close at 4.00pm on this day, and you will need to exit the Zoo and re-enter when gates for the NYE event open from 6.00pm 

BYO food and non-alcoholic beverages in sealed containers. Additional food and alcohol also available on-site for sale, please note BYO alcohol and glass is not permitted. Bag checks will be conducted on entry and all alcohol and non-alcoholic beverages in un-sealed containers (including glass, cans or hard plastics) will be confiscated. 

 

Platinum - SOLD OUT

Platinum Seating

Platinum is located at the Taronga Event Centre in N’Galawa Terrace. Guests will be treated to unbroken panoramic views of the Harbour, a space that will be set with cocktail furniture and lounges, live entertainment and an evening of indulgent canapes, drinks and dancing to ring in the new year. This is an over 18’s event only. Please note, this section is accessible. 

Special Platinum Offer - Buy 10 x tickets, get 1 Free! 

Gates open: from 7:30pm via Taronga Event Centre reception 

Cost: Adults $400 | This is an over 18’s event only 

Inclusions: 

  • Stunning unbroken views of Sydney Harbour and Bridge for the fireworks display  

  • All your food is included in your ticket price including roving canapes and a delectable food station (including some late-night treats!)  

  • Arrival cocktail and midnight toast are included and a cash bar will be available for all other beverages
  • Live entertainment and dance floor  

  • Complimentary park and ride service to and from Spit Junction  

  • FREE same day Zoo entry*   

 

*Your ticket includes free same day Zoo entry on Saturday, 31st December. Please note, the Zoo will close at 4.00pm on this day, and you will need to exit the Zoo with entry to the event centre permitted from 7.30pm 

This is an over 18’s event only with no BYO options available. Additional alcohol and all non-alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase from the bar located in the event room and all food is included in your ticket price. 

Gold - SOLD OUT

Gold Seating

Gold is located in the Bird Show Amphitheatre and Condor Lawns on the western side of the Zoo. Here, guests will enjoy magnificent views of Sydney Harbour and Bridge for the midnight fireworks. Gold patrons will be given a wristband upon entry for access to the gold area only. Please note, this section is accessible by wheelchair and pram. 

Gates open: from 6:30pm via the Zoo’s main entrance gate. 

Cost: Adults $335 | Children $200 (4-15 years) | Children under four years receive free entry 

Inclusions: 

  • Magnificent views of Sydney Harbour and Bridge for the midnight fireworks 

  • Secure parking on-site or complimentary park and ride service to and from Spit Junction. Parking is included in the price of a GOLD ticket. Must be booked as Add On. Limited to 1 Parking Pass between 4 tickets. 

  • Live entertainment 

  • A chance to experience some of Taronga’s wildlife until dark 

  • Live entertainment  

  • FREE same day Zoo entry* 

  • Option to Add-On a Gourmet Food Hamper to share between 2 people  

 

*Your ticket includes free same day Zoo entry on Saturday, 31st December. Please note, the Zoo will close at 4.00pm on this day, and you will need to exit the Zoo and re-enter when gates for the NYE event open from 6.00pm 

BYO food and non-alcoholic beverages in sealed containers. Additional food and alcohol also available on-site for sale, please note BYO alcohol and glass is not permitted. Bag checks will be conducted on entry and all alcohol and non-alcoholic beverages in un-sealed containers (including glass, cans or hard plastics) will be confiscated. 

Silver - SOLD OUT

Silver Seating

Silver is located on the Concert Lawns of the Zoo. Here, guests will enjoy great views of Sydney Harbour and Bridge for the fireworks. Silver patrons will be given a wristband upon entry for access to the Silver area only. Please note, this section is accessible by wheelchair and pram. 

Gates open: from 6pm via the Zoo’s main entrance gate. 

Cost: Adults $225 | Children $115 | Children under four years receive free entry 

Inclusions: 

  • Great views of Sydney Harbour and Bridge for the fireworks  

  • Complimentary park and ride service to and from Spit Junction  

  • FREE same day Zoo entry* 

  • A chance to experience some of Taronga’s wildlife until dark  

  • Live entertainment  

  • Option to Add-On a Gourmet Food Hamper to share between 2 people  

  • Option to Add-On parking for an additional fee. Please note there is limited secure parking on-site available 

 

*Your ticket includes free same day Zoo entry on Sunday, 31st December. Please note, the Zoo will close at 4.00pm on this day, and you will need to exit the Zoo and re-enter when gates for the NYE event open from 6.00pm 

BYO food and non-alcoholic beverages in sealed containers. Additional food and alcohol also available on-site for sale, please note BYO alcohol and glass is not permitted. Bag checks will be conducted on entry and all alcohol and non-alcoholic beverages in un-sealed containers (including glass, cans or hard plastics) will be confiscated. 

Taronga Zoo - New Year's Eve
Taronga Zoo - New Year's Eve

Ticket add ons

Premium Hampers for 2

Premium Hamper for 2

$105.00

• Curried chicken wrap

• BLT wrap

• Chickpea salad with capsicum dressing

• Prosciutto, Danish salami, truffled brie, cheddar &Swiss cheese

• Crackers, dried apricots & muscatels

• Hummus & beetroot dips

• Kiwi & orange slices with grapes & passionfruit

• Chocolate raspberry slice

• With a choice on the night of a bottle or red, white or sparkling wine OR a selection of 4 beer, ciders or soft drinks.

Premium Hamper Photo

Premium Plant-Based Hamper for 2

$105.00

• Grilled eggplant and hummus ciabatta roll

• Avocado & tomato sandwich

• Chickpea salad with capsicum dressing

• Hummus & beetroot dips

• Rice crackers, dried apricots & muscatels

• Kiwi & orange slices with grapes & passionfruit

• Chocolate raspberry slice

• With a choice on the night of a bottle of red, white or sparkling wine OR a selection of 4 beer, ciders or soft drinks.

Plant based

Both hampers do not contain nuts, however we are unable to guarantee traces will not be present as we use a variety of nuts, and other allergens, in our kitchens.

If you have already purchased GOLD tickets and would like to purchase add ons, please select the below

If you have already purchased SILVER tickets and would like to purchase add ons, please select the below:

Parking

  • Diamond reserved tickets include 1 (one) parking space between 2 (two) tickets purchased. 

  • Gold reserved tickets include 1 (one) parking space between 4 (four) tickets purchased  

  • Additional parking onsite at Taronga Zoo can be purchased for $49 .  

  • Alternatively, Diamond, Platinum, Gold & Silver tickets also include a complimentary park and ride service to and from Spit Junction.  

Additional parking onsite at Taronga Zoo can be purchased for $49 here.

Chillazy Chair & Picnic Rug

  • Sit back and relax in style with the Chillazy Chair $35 

  • For extra comfort during your New Year’s Eve experience, add on a Taronga Picnic Rug $25 

If you have already purchased SILVER tickets and would like to purchase add ons, please select the below:

If you have already purchased GOLD tickets and would like to purchase add ons, please select the below:

Wildlife Retreat at Taronga Two-Night NYE Experience

If you have already purchased NYE at Taronga tickets and would like to add on the Wildlife Retreat at Taronga, please visit here.

INCLUSIONS

• 2 nights accommodation in Bushland View Room

• 3 Day access to the Zoo

• Sanctuary Tour: a guided walk through the central wildlife habitat to meet the local residents including koalas, echidnas, pademelons, wallabies and bettongs

• Daily Breakfast

• Complimentary Parking

• Escorted Access to NYE ticketed area

 

COST:

$3,995.00 per room (Inclusive of 2 people)

Additional Adult: $750.00

Additional Child: $390.00

 

Please note this package is an add on only and does not include your NYE at Taronga ticket in grounds (Diamond, Platinum, Gold or Silver).

 

ADD ON PACKAGE TERMS & CONDITIONS - WILDLIFE RETREAT AT TARONGA TWO-NIGHT NYE EXPERIENCE!

All stays at the Wildlife Retreat over New Years Eve are non-refundable and cancellations incur a 100% cancellations charge. Date changes are not possible.

• Minimum 2 nights stay (31st December 2023 & 1st January 2024)

• Maximum 3 Guests per room (Additional Charges apply)

• Guests are required at all times to behave in a manner consistent with Taronga’s Animal Welfare Charter. Children must be supervised at all times within the Wildlife Retreat and all bookings require an accompanying adult over the age of 18

• The Taronga Wildlife Retreat is a non-smoking property. Smoking is only permitted outside of the site boundary

• Balloons and confetti are not allowed on the premises as they pose a significant risk to wildlife on site

 

FAQS

General

What time does the event start? 

  • Silver: from 6pm via the Zoo’s main entrance gate. 

  • Gold: from 6.30pm via the Zoo’s main entrance gate. 

  • Diamond: from 7pm via the Zoo’s main entrance gate 

  • Platinum: from 7:30pm via Taronga Event Centre reception 

I’m running late, can I enter later? 

  • Yes. You are welcome to enter the event any time after gates open, please follow staff and make your way directly to your ticketed location.  

Ticketing

Where can I buy tickets? 

  • Tickets can be purchased online via Ticketek.  

Can I buy tickets at the Zoo on the night? 

  • We do not have an on-site box office and all tickets must be purchased online and before you arrive.  

Does my ticket give me entry to the Zoo during the day? 

  • Yes, all New Year’s Eve at Taronga tickets include same day zoo entry on Sunday 31 December only. Upon entry into the Zoo, please show your New Year’s Eve tickets to the staff at validation. Please note, the Zoo will close at 4.00pm on this day, and you will need to exit the Zoo and re-enter when gates for the NYE event open from 6.00pm 

I purchased tickets but can no longer attend? 

  • Tickets to the event are non-refundable, unless the event is cancelled by the organiser, Taronga Zoo Sydney.  

Can I give my tickets to a friend or family member? 

  • Yes! Tickets are not tied to the purchasers name, so you are welcome to pass your tickets onto friends or family to use.  

Do you accept Companion Cards? 

  • Yes, holders of a government issued companion card can access a free ticket for their companion. Proof of eligibility will be required upon entry. Please book these tickets by calling Ticketek’s Accessible Line on 1300 665 915. 

Lost ticket, ticket issues or requests? 

  • For all ticket enquiries including purchasing over the phone / Tickets were not received / I can no longer attend and want a refund or exchange – please visit Ticketek Support. 

Venue

How do I get to Taronga Zoo? 

  • Ferries may not be running in the late afternoon if there is heavy boat traffic. The public bus that meets the ferry at Taronga Wharf up to the Zoo entrance will not be running due to Police road closures and there is no entry from the bottom of the zoo. We advise if patrons are using public transport to catch a bus to the Zoo from Sydney CBD. Visit www.transportnsw.info/or call 131500 for up-to-date New Year’s Eve public transport information closer to the date. 

Taronga Zoo car park? 

  • Diamond and Gold ticket holders are entitled to park on-site at Taronga Zoo in the main Zoo car park by using the entrance at the end of Prince Albert Street and junction of Whiting Beach Road.  

  • Silver and Platinum ticket holders can also purchase a voucher to park on-site for an additional $49 from Moshtix. A number of police roadblocks will be in place around the Zoo and the Sydney Harbour foreshore area and access around these roadblocks will require a Zoo NYE car park ticket. To avoid any issues with road blocks all patrons with a Zoo NYE Car Park Ticket should arrive at the Zoo via Prince Albert Street rather than Bradleys Head Road. 

Taronga Zoo shuttle bus? 

  • All ticket holders can access complimentary parking at either Vista Street car park (entry off Vista Street) or Bridgepoint car park (entry off Horden Drive) at Spit Junction (3km from the Zoo). The shuttle bus service to and from the Zoo will pick up guests from the rear of Mosman Council, The Crescent, Mosman and will begin service at 4.30pm. This shuttle bus will continue to do trips to and from the Zoo throughout the evening, leaving regularly from the Main Entrance of the Zoo until approximately 11.30pm, and from the Zoo’s coach parking area at the back of the Zoo from 11:30pm – 1:30am. Please note that your vehicle can remain in either of these car parks until 3.00am at the latest.  

  • Please note: There may be delays upon exit for cars and the shuttle transport to Spit Junction following the midnight firework display due to the heavy volume of traffic to and from the City. We appreciate your understanding 

Is the Zoo an accessible site? 

  • The Diamond reserved location is non-accessible due to its location which includes a set of stairs.  

  • Gold, Platinum, and Silver locations are accessible by wheelchair and pram.  

  • To get the most out of your experience, comfortable shoes and attire are highly recommended. For full information on accessibility at Taronga Zoo, please visit: https://taronga.org.au/taronga-zoo/plan-your-zoo-visit/facilities-accessibility 

  • Please contact us on 9969 2777 if you may require assistance during your experience. 

Are strollers and prams allowed? 

  • Yes, strollers and prams are allowed. 

What aren’t I allowed to bring? 

  • The following items are prohibited and not allowed to be brought into the Zoo grounds; 
    Weapons, sharps, glass, animals or animal costumes, balls, balloons, bicycle, scooter, skateboard or rollerblades, alcohol or illegal substances, non-alcoholic beverages in unsealed containers (including glass, cans or hard plastics), musical instruments, noisemaker, airhorn, laser pen, laser pointer or similar focused light devices, portable BBQs, candles, sparklers and/or any firework paraphernalia, poles, sticks, selfie or Go Pro sticks, professional photography, drones. 

  • No liquids (including non-alcoholic beverages, water or alcohol) are permitted on site for security reasons. Free water refill stations are available on site, so bring your empty reusable water bottles, no glass permitted! Please ensure your reusable water bottles are emptied before entering through the security checkpoint. 

  • All non-alcoholic beverages must be in sealed containers (such as hard plastic or cans), glass is not permitted. 

  • For more information, please view the prohibited items list here. 

How will the animals respond to the event and extended opening hours during the event? 

  • Rest assured that Taronga’s first priority and concern is always the welfare of the remarkable animals in our care. Taronga’s animals also have access to the comfort and shelter of their night dens and inside areas, but it’s not uncommon for certain animals to choose to remain outside during night events. 

  • Planning has included detailed assessments from keepers to ensure that the event will not be problematic for our animals. Fortunately, Taronga Zoo Sydney has more than 25 years’ experience in successfully hosting after-hours events, including the Twilight at Taronga concerts, Vivid Sydney at Taronga Zoo and New Year’s Eve. Keepers and behavioural scientists monitor the animals and the environment during these events to ensure animal wellbeing is assured, and we are pleased that there have been no reported issues since the Twilight concerts began in 1996. 

  • The Zoo measures noise levels periodically during the concerts and if the guidelines are accidentally exceeded, the volume is immediately reduced. Additionally, Taronga Zoo’s animals also have access to the comfort and shelter of their night quarters and inside areas, but it’s not uncommon for certain animals to choose to remain outside during night events. 

  • Taronga is a not for profit organisation and funds raised by the series directly benefit the Zoo’s wildlife programs. 

Will I get to see animals during the event? 

  • Some animal exhibits will remain open until later. Please note that animals will have access to their off exhibit areas as well so may not be visible. If you would like to see all our incredible animals, we suggest making the most out of your free Zoo Admission and visiting Taronga Zoo during the day! 

Can I smoke or vape? 

  • Taronga Zoo is a smoke-free site. Smoking, vaping and the use of any electronic device that simulates tobacco smoking is prohibited in all zoo outdoor areas. Guests who do not comply will be denied entry or removed. 

Safety & Security: 

  • New Year’s Eve is a family event. For the safety of other guests as well as our resident animals, any guest who is found acting in a socially disruptive manner may be removed from the Zoo grounds at the discretion of Taronga Zoo security and management. All guests are expected to keep alcohol consumption to a socially acceptable standard. Please note: Zoo Management reserve the right to remove from the Zoo premises anyone in a state of intoxication or who serves liquor to a minor. 

Seating

What are the seating arrangements? 

  • Diamond guests will be provided with upright chairs to sit on. 

  • The Gold area is mainly an amphitheatre style setting with long benches and limited lawn space. The limited lawn space is suitable for picnic rugs and cushions. 

  • The Silver area is located on the concert lawns and is suited for picnic rugs, cushions and low chairs. 

  • The Platinum area is located at the Taronga Event Centre in N’Galawa Terrace. Guests will be treated to a space that will be set with cocktail furniture and lounges 

Can I bring my own seat? 

  • Yes, you can bring your own low-level seats, cushions and rugs. Alternatively, a limited number of Chillazy Chairs will be available for purchase for any patrons who are looking for a comfy place to settle on. 

  • Additional seating is not required for Platinum tickets. 

Eat & Drink

Will there be places to eat? 

  • The Taronga Food Market and Coffee Shop will be open to all NYE patrons offering a variety of hot and cold food. Please note Taronga Zoo is cashless.   

  • Bars will be available in each viewing area, serving soft drinks, beer, wine and RTDs, as well as snacks.    

  • Delicious Gourmet Hampers are available to add on to your NYE ticket. Alternatively, you are welcome to BYO food and non-alcoholic beverages (no glass). 

  • Platinum tickets include all of your food and an arrival drink with all other beverages available for purchase from the bar located in venue 

* Subject to change please check the Taronga website for up to date menus 

Can I BYO Alcohol? 

  • Taronga Zoo is a fully licensed event and BYO alcohol and glass is not permitted. Random bag checks will be conducted on entry and all alcohol and non-alcoholic beverages in un-sealed containers (including glass, cans or hard plastics) will be confiscated. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are available to purchase. 

  • Free water refill stations are also available on site, so bring your empty reusable water bottles, no glass permitted! Please ensure your reusable water bottles are emptied before entering through the security checkpoint. 

Weather

What happens if it rains? 

  • As an outdoor event, New Year’s Eve at Taronga is subject to weather. Please note the event will proceed rain or shine. The event will be cancelled only if the weather poses a safety threat to patrons, staff or performers at Taronga Zoo during show time. 

  • We strongly recommend you come prepared with wet weather gear, raincoats and ponchos and something waterproof to sit on in case of rain (umbrellas may be used at the rear of the lawn only. We endeavour to provide as much notice as possible regarding any changes to the event due to weather, however as weather conditions are unpredictable this status may change at any time. The decision to delay or cancel an event is made by the Event Manager on site and can be made at any time up to or during the event. Any changes to the event times due to weather will be communicated to ticket holders and via Taronga’s website. 

  • Patrons accept that in purchasing a ticket they are paying for an event that commences at approximately 6pm at Taronga Zoo and that weather conditions prior to that time and in other parts of Sydney will not result in the performance being cancelled. Patrons accept the risk that weather they consider unsatisfactory may occur on a concert night and acknowledge that a performance may be cancelled by Taronga due to dangerous weather conditions at the time of or during the performance. 

  • Some pathways may have low level lighting, we recommend caution in these areas.

Accommodation

Can I stay overnight at the Zoo as part of my experience? 

- Yes! Make your New Year’s Eve experience the ultimate night out by staying at Taronga's elegant eco-retreat, the Wildlife Retreat at Taronga. Nestled within the grounds of Taronga Zoo, the Wildlife Retreat offers designer rooms, intimate wildlife encounters, award-winning dining and stunning views over Sydney Harbour and the city. Visit https://taronga.org.au/retreat for more information and availability! 

Taronga Zoo - New Year's Eve
Taronga Zoo - New Year's Eve

NYE resolutions for the wild

2024 is upon us and there has never been a more important time to consider our impact on the on the planet.  

With change in the air what a better time to start fresh. One simple choice can make a world of difference to wildlife. 

1. Choose the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) eco-label when purchasing sustainable seafood

Almost 90% of the world’s fish stocks are depleted, over-exploited or fished to their limit. Luckily, it is still possible to enjoy a great meal and help protect the oceans at the same time. Choosing MSC ensures that fisheries maintain good management practices, healthy fish stocks & habitats and that fishing community livelihoods are secure. 

Make a resolution to choose MSC and you are not only helping to support fisheries that are doing the right thing, but you will also ensure an ocean-friendly future. 

2. Have a meat-free meal once a week

Most of us love meat but we rarely consider the amount of natural resources and energy that is needed to get the meat from the farm to our plates. Large-scale agricultural farming of livestock has also been found to be a significant contributor to climate change. 

Make a resolution to have one (or a few) meat free dishes a week. In fact, a recent global report found that by changing our food habits, we could reduce our carbon emissions by 8 gigatons annually by 2050 - that’s huge! 

3. Choose tiger-friendly products that use sustainable palm oil

If you’ve heard of palm oil, you’ve probably heard it’s bad for the environment. But the truth is it doesn’t have to be. If it’s grown sustainably, palm oil production can benefit local communities, and help to protect valuable species and forests.  

Make a resolution to only choose products that use 100% Certified Sustainable Palm Oil. 

4. Reduce your food waste

Australians throw away over three million tonnes of food each year! By reducing the amount of food waste being sent to landfill you are not only saving money, but you are also helping to reduce the amount of greenhouse gases produced when organic waste decomposes. 

Make a resolution to eat more sustainably. You could try taking a shopping list, keeping track of expiry dates, buying seasonal and locally produced food or reducing portion sizes - all of which will take the load off our planet.