(PR.co.nz) Auckland Zoo is going smokefree on Saturday, 29 May for the first time in its 88-year history.
The zoo’s new smokefree policy coincides with World Smokefree Day on Monday, 31 May and was prompted in part by recent customer feedback.
Auckland Zoo Board chairperson, Councillor Graeme Mulholland says the move to become smokefree is in alignment with the zoo’s value of creating a healthy environment.
“The zoo is a place where Aucklanders and visitors to Auckland come to see unique wildlife, and we want to make sure that their whole experience will be enjoyable. This is why the board has endorsed a smokefree policy,” he says.
The zoo has partnered with Cancer Society Auckland and the Health Sponsorship Council to launch their smokefree status.
The Cancer Society says it is great to see Auckland Zoo helping create a healthier community by joining the growing number of venues choosing to go smokefree.
Auckland Zoo visitor services manager, Natalie Hansby says that the zoo will be installing signage to communicate the new policy and does not expect much negative reaction from the 580,000 people who visit the zoo each year.
“Many of our visitors are surprised to learn that the zoo is not smokefree already.
“So while there will be an adjustment period for some, we think that this step better reflects the community’s expectations,” she says.
Media Release 26 May 2010 from Auckland City Council.