This year we showcased an incredible selection of Australian native animal lanterns inspired by First Nations Culture. These lanterns were created by contemporary Aboriginal artist Nathan Peckham of YURANA CREATIVE and was a collaboration between precinct director Nicholas Tory and his technical and creative team at Ample Projects. It was also our second year of partnering with access and inclusion partner Cushman & Wakefield who have help us deliver a more inclusive Wild Lights than ever before!
Register here for event updates on future Wild Lights events.
Event details
Your ticket to Wild Lights 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, care for thousands of injured wildlife at our Wildlife Hospitals, and breeding threatened species to insure against extinction.
When
Taronga’s Wild Lights will return from Friday 26th May to Saturday 17th June 2023. (Every Wednesday-Sunday, including Public holiday on Monday 12th June 2023)
Sessions: Tickets can be purchased for two session times:
- Session 1 - 5.30pm enter anytime from 5.30pm
- Session 2 - 7.30pm enter anytime from 7.30pm
Your session times are start times only. You can arrive from your selected session time 5:30pm or 7:30pm. 5:30pm session ticket holders please be aware the peak arrival time is between 5.30pm - 6pm, please consider this when planning your visit and note from 6-6:30pm will allow ample time for your visit. Wild Lights is an approx. 90 minutes experience. Last entry time: 8:30pm. Vivid at Taronga Closes at 9:30pm.
Where
Taronga Zoo Sydney, Bradleys Head Rd Mosman NSW 2088
Tickets
Adult (16+ Years) - $30.00
Child (4-15 Years) - $25.00
Concession (Seniors & Students) - $27.00
Children Under 4 Years are free!
Taronga is a not-for-profit organisation, so all proceeds save wildlife. A ticket to Wild Lights at Taronga has the power to protect.
Food and Beverage
- Indulge in our special Wild Lights menu featuring winter warming favourites such as loaded corn and jacket potatoes, rainbow fried rice, cheesy chicken tender parmigiana and more.
- Satisfy your sweet tooth with a create-your-own chocolate mousse waffle cone or fairy floss.
- For the grown-ups, enjoy a mulled wine from the Forage & Graze Café at the start of the light walk, or enjoy a beer with dinner at the Taronga Food Market.
*Please note these offers are subject to change
Zoo ticket add ons
Want to experience all Taronga has to offer? Purchase a discounted Zoo entry ticket, and head in early on the same day as your Vivid session to explore the Zoo!
Adult (16+ Years) - $34.30
Child (4-15 Years) - $20.30
Concession (Seniors & Students) - $27.30
Children Under 4 Years are free!
Please note, all visitors must exit the Zoo by 4.30pm each day and re-enter when Wild Lights at Taronga Zoo opens at 5.30pm.
If you have already purchased your Wild Lights tickets and would like to visit the Zoo on the same day, please head to the Taronga Zoo ticket office located in the top plaza and show your Wild Lights tickets for discounted Zoo entry tickets.
Wild Lights Trail Map
Download your light trail map that will guide you through the Zoo to explore over 130 lanterns and light installations.
Wild Ropes After Dark!
Brand-new experience, exclusive to Wild Lights at Taronga!
Add to your Wild Lights adventure and take on the much-loved high ropes course, Wild Ropes, the exhilarating after dark treetops experience. Wild Ropes courses are suitable for kids through to adults - just choose your challenge, strap on a helmet and harness, and get ready to experience Wild Lights from new heights!
Wild Ropes After Dark is available as an add-on to both the 5.30 pm & 7.30 pm sessions of Wild Lights at Taronga. The age limit for Wild Ropes is three years and over.
Sessions available at 5.30pm, 6.00pm, 6.30pm, 7.00pm (Fri & Sat only), 7.30pm (Fri & Sat only).
Pricing:
Adults (8+ Years): $24.20 *8-10 years requires 1 participating adult for up to 4 children. Teens 11-15 years requires adult supervision.
Junior (3-7 Years): $18.70 *requires adult supervision

About our Artists
This year, Wild Lights at Taronga Vivid is a collaboration between Nathans two-dimensional contemporary imaginings of Australia’s most iconic and miraculous wildlife and the light expertise and engineering innovation of Ample Projects artistic director Nicholas Tory.
Nathan Peckham of Yurana Creative

Nathan Peckham is an Aboriginal artist at the cutting edge of contemporary First Nations art and design. A direct descendant of the Tubbah clan within the Wiradjuri nation of NSW, Nathan is dedicated to the advancement and recognition of the depth and richness of Cultural artistic representation of his ancestral homeland.
For the past 25 years, Nathan has been slowly gathering knowledge and skills and applying them to his craft. Inspired by the learnings from his Elders, Nathan weaves together a vibrant mixture of modern media and methods to breathe life into his unique brand of artwork and design, determined to continue evolving and shaping his artistic style and methods. Nathan is the creative director and founder of YURANA CREATIVE based in Dubbo, NSW and is proud to see his art and work reaching and connecting with people across the globe.
YURANA CREATIVE - www.yuranacreative.com
Nicholas Tory of Ample Projects

Nicholas Tory is an award-winning Artist, Artistic Director, Designer and Project Director and the owner and Director of Ample Projects.
Ample Projects is a Sydney based collaborative of artists, designers and technologists, who create public art and experiences within urban environments. Drawing inspiration from their own experiences of living in cities and a desire to be closer to nature, Ample’s work seeks to explore the nature of how we effect the world around us, and how our experiences of the world affect us.
Brian Walsh of Stage Light

Brian Walsh is Senior Production Designer and Technical Production Manager at Stage Light Pty Ltd.
For more than 30 years, the team at Stage Light have been providing technical production services on the East Coast of Australia ranging from intimate theatre to large scale public events.
The team merges cutting-edge technology with artistic flair to revolutionise lighting and design, turning ordinary spaces into extraordinary showcases.
They are proud to support Taronga Zoo and Vivid Wild Lights.



Stay overnight
Want to enjoy the ultimate Vivid experience? We have a special offer for you!
Make your Vivid 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.
Vivid Package

Rooms start from $625 for a Bushland View room. Twin Share
- Overnight Accommodation
- Sanctuary Tour- a guided walk through the central wildlife habitat to meet the local residents including koalas, echidnas, pademelons, wallabies and bettongs
- Buffet Breakfast
- Complimentary access to Taronga Zoo Sydney
- Complimentary parking within Taronga's multi-storey carpark
Further enhance your evening with the Wildlife Retreat’s Vivid Add On package that will see you jump the queue and access an exclusive guided tour through the Zoo.
Further enhance your evening with the Wildlife Retreat’s Vivid Add On package that will see you jump the queue and access an exclusive guided tour through the Zoo.
The Vivid add on package includes:
- Entry into Vivid
- Escorted access to Vivid (giving you priority entry)
- Exclusive Zoo Tour only available to those who book the Vivid Add On Package.
Vivid Add On
Price is from $95 per Adult & $65 per child.
The Vivid add on package can be added to your room when booking online and is not sold without a confirmed overnight stay at the Wildlife Retreat.
To secure your booking visit: https://taronga.org.au/sydney-zoo/wildlife-retreat/vivid
Access and Inclusion
This year, Wild Lights will also see the return Cushman & Wakefield, Taronga’s valued Access and Inclusion partner. This partnership will help Taronga to deliver a considered Wild Lights experience for guests of all abilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I purchase tickets?
Tickets can be booked online via Ticketek
Can I buy tickets at the Zoo on the night?
Tickets can be purchased at the Zoo on the night, unless sold out prior. We recommend you pre-book online to guarantee entry and avoid disappointment.
Does a Wild Lights ticket give me entry to the Zoo during the day?
No. Your Wild Lights at Taronga Zoo ticket grants access to the evening Vivid event only, from your allocated time slot of 5.30pm or 7.30pm. You can combine your Vivid experience with a day at the Zoo by adding a Zoo same day admission ticket to your Wild Lights booking online. Please note: all visitors must exit the Zoo by 4.30pm each day and re-enter when Wild Lights at Taronga Zoo opens at 5.30pm.
I purchased tickets but can no longer attend – Can I give my tickets to a friend?
Yes, tickets aren’t tied to the purchaser’s name.
What is the refund policy for Wild Lights at Taronga tickets?
Tickets to the event are non-refundable, unless the event is cancelled by the organiser, Taronga Zoo Sydney. Should you be unable to attend your session, tickets can be transferred to another session pending ticket availability. Please contact Ticketek Support for any ticket exchange requests.
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.
Do you take Group Bookings?
Groups of 12+ are eligible for a discount of 10% on Wild Lights tickets. If you wish to buy more than 12 tickets for a group, please contact Ticketek online.
Ticket issues or requests
For all ticket enquiries including purchasing over the phone / Tickets weren’t received / I can no longer attend and want a refund or exchange – please visit Ticketek Support.
How do I get to the Zoo?
There are lots of transport options available for visitors to Wild Lights at Taronga Zoo.
You can drive and park at the Zoo. Taronga Zoo has a multi-story car park with limited parking available. The Zoo car park fills up quickly, so we highly recommend public transport as a green option!
The Zoo is located 12 minutes from Circular Quay by ferry or a short bus trip from the city or North Sydney. Additional ferry services to Circular Quay and bus services to Spit Junction will be running from the zoo during Vivid.
Visit www.transportnsw.info or call 131 500 for up-to-date information and timetables. Additional Vivid services should be updated on this site as the event approaches.
How much does parking cost?
The car park is $11.00 for guests entering after 4.30pm. For guests entering prior to 4.30pm, the parking is a flat rate of $22 for the whole day, or free if entering and exiting within a 90 minute period. Please note: there is no 90-minute grace period after 4.30pm.
How do I get from the wharf to the Zoo’s top entrance?
There are regular bus services to transport visitors from the wharf to the Zoo’s top entrance. Please note there will be no entry via the Zoo’s lower entrance from the wharf during Wild Lights at Taronga Zoo.
Is the bus a free shuttle service?
The busses are regular Sydney public bus services, so please ensure you have your ticket or Opal card ready. If you are traveling via ferry the bus is usually included in your single trip ticket. For more information on fares visit www.transportnsw.info
Is the Sky Safari operating at Taronga Zoo?
After 35 years of the high life, our beloved Sky Safari took it’s last ride on Tuesday 31st January 2023. It’s farewell for now, but planning is well underway for the upgraded Sky Safari Experience.
What time does Wild Lights at Taronga Zoo open?
Wild Lights at Taronga Zoo will be lit up Wednesday-Sunday as well as Public holiday Monday 12th June and is open from 5:30pm - 9:30pm, with last entry at 8:30pm. Taronga Zoo closes at 4:30pm to day visitors. All visitors must exit the Zoo by 4.30pm each day and re-enter when Wild Lights opens at 5.30pm.
I’m running late for my allocated time slot, can I enter at a later time?
Yes. You are welcome to enter Wild Lights any time on your allocated day after 5.30pm until 8.30pm.
How long does the light walk take?
The light walk will take approximately 90 minutes at a comfortable pace.
Is the Zoo an accessible site?
Taronga Zoo is an accessible site, but it does contain some steep slopes and the light walk is no exception. To get the most out of your experience, comfortable shoes and attire are highly recommended. Please contact us if you may require assistance. For full information on accessibility at Taronga Zoo, please visit: https://taronga.org.au/taronga-zoo/plan-your-zoo-visit/facilities-accessibility
Accessibility Shuttle
An Accessibility Shuttle will be available to transport guests from the first RESET Zone when required. Should you need to leave during the Light Journey, head to the exit zone half way through the route or find a staff member or volunteer for support. The exit vehicle has a wheelchair lift, rated to 350kg (in-line with Australian standards). The hoist is 1290mm long and 830mm wide. If you have any questions regarding mobility assistance, please contact the General Zoo Enquiries on tz@zoo.nsw.gov.au or (02) 9969 2777
Are strollers and prams allowed?
Yes, strollers and prams are allowed.
Will there be places to eat?
There will be a selection of food and beverage offerings at Taronga Zoo Sydney during the evening, more information will be available closer to the event.
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.
All food and beverage outlets will be marked on the Wild Lights at Taronga map. Taronga is a not-for-profit organisation and every dollar you spend at Taronga goes directly back into the support, care and protection of wildlife.
What happens if it rains?
As an outdoor event, Wild Lights at Taronga is subject to weather. Please note the event will proceed rain or shine. We strongly recommend you come prepared with wet weather gear, raincoats and ponchos and something waterproof to sit on in case of rain. Ponchos and umbrellas will be available to purchase at the Zoo’s retail outlets. If there is weather that presents a risk to our patrons, Taronga will notify ticketholders if the session needs to be cancelled.
Ticketholders will be notified via email of any cancellations. Please also check our website and social media pages for updates.
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.
Can I stay overnight at the Zoo as part of my Vivid experience?
Yes! Make your Wild Lights experience even more magical and experience the ultimate night out by adding a stay at the Wildlife Retreat at Taronga. Visit https://taronga.org.au/retreat for more information
How will the animals respond to the light sculptures and extended opening hours during Vivid Sydney?
Rest assured that Taronga’s first priority and concern is always the welfare of the remarkable animals in our care. The locations of the lanterns and light sculptures for Wild Lights at Taronga Zoo have been carefully chosen to focus on public areas rather than animal exhibits.
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. Additional keepers that are very familiar with the behaviours of all our animals will work later shifts to monitor them.
The actual lighting within the zoo is largely based on softly glowing lanterns, not an intense lighting display. These lanterns will gradually be switched on in late afternoons so that our animals can become accustomed to them.
Will visitors get to see animals during Vivid Sydney at Taronga Zoo?
The focus of Wild Lights at Taronga Zoo will be on the amazing light sculptures and lanterns, along with Taronga’s spectacular harbour and skyline views.
After the animals have retired to their night quarters for the evening, the lights of Wild Lights at Taronga Zoo will take centre stage.
What sessions are available at Wild Ropes After Dark?
5:30pm, 6.00pm & 6:30pm
Can I purchase tickets to Wild Ropes if I have tickets to the 5:30pm Wild Lights session?
If your Wild Lights session is from 5:30pm, you can add on Wild Ropes and climb before or after your Wild Lights walk, please ensure you are at the Wild Ropes entry for your selected session time of 5:30pm, 6pm or 6:30pm.
Can I purchase tickets to Wild Ropes if I have tickets to the 7:30pm Wild Lights session?
If your Wild Lights session is from 7:30pm, you can add on Wild Ropes at 5:30pm, 6pm or 6:30pm.
Already have your Wild Lights tickets and want to add-on a Wild Ropes after Dark experience?
On arrival to Taronga Zoo for your Wild Lights session, head to the box office (located in the Top Plaza) to purchase Wild Ropes tickets.
Please note this experience is subject to availability on the night.
How long is the Wild Ropes experience?
Each climbing experience will be around 20 - 25 mins - please ensure you arrive at your session time.
Where is the Wild Ropes After Dark entry?
The Wild Ropes entry is in the Top Plaza at Taronga Zoo. Please enter through the main entry and make your way to the Wild Ropes desk next to the Forage and Graze Cafe.
Do I need to sign a waiver to experience Wild Ropes?
Yes, a waiver will need to be signed upon arrival to Wild Ropes.
What is the age limit for the Wild Ropes experience?
The age limit for Wild Ropes is three years and over. 3-7 years requires adult supervision. 8-10 years requires 1 participating adult for up to 4 children. Teens 11-15 years requires adult supervision.
Do I need to purchase tickets to Wild Ropes or can I walk in?
Wild Ropes is available via Ticketek as an Add On to your Taronga Wild Lights tickets. If you would like to add on Wild Ropes, you will need to purchase tickets. Walk-ins will be subject to availability on the night.
Can I book Wild Ropes at Vivid without having Wild Lights tickets?
Wild Ropes can only be booked as an Add On to your Wild Lights tickets.
How you can help
Here are our tips to help reduce the impact of our collective footprint on the wild creatures that we share this planet with:
- Reuse your own – raid your cupboards for any fun, flashing items (such as light wands) you have already purchased and bring them along. Most will have batteries that can easily be changed to bring it back to life!
- BYO Bottle - We are promoting the use of reusable bottles and provide free water refill stations, which will be available for you. Please remember to bring an empty reusable bottle with you through security. Refer to map for location.
- No Glow - Whilst they might shine bright for a night, unfortunately glow sticks cannot be recycled. Why not try wearing bright, neon coloured clothing instead?
Vivid Social Media Competition Terms and Conditions
Be sure to Follow us at Taronga Zoo on Instagram or Facebook to be involved in this amazing giveaway.