The Zookeepers Son

In February 1912, John James Boyd created New Zealand’s first zoological garden in the heart of Royal Oak. Nearly a century later, the zoo’s spirit has been rekindled.

A key element included through not just the outlet’s name but its décor is the legend of the zookeeper’s son and his incredible feat.

The tale behind this hero may seem far-fetched to some but it’s most definitely true. When the Royal Oak zoo was at its height it housed lions, tigers, panthers, hyenas, monkeys, flamingos and other exotic animals.

Unfortunately one day a lion escaped and ran down busy Queenstown Road. It was eventually captured by the zookeeper’s son who became something of a celebrity at the time. The zoo was forced to close after the incident and its inhabitants were gifted to the newly established Auckland Zoo at Western Springs in 1922.

Now, 99 years later, the tale has been brought back to life through The Zookeeper’s Son which offers a great range of dining experiences for all tastes and ages.

Among the menu items its modern take on the traditional family roast. Roast meats are brought to the table on a large carving board for guests to carve themselves. They’re large enough for two people as a hearty main meal or for four people to share as a smaller sized main.

“Our menus offer a huge range of choices for groups of families and friends to enjoy in a smart, contemporary, yet relaxed pub environment. We have brunch, lunch and dinner menus seven days a week as well as purpose-designed kid’s menus which double as a colouring activity. Our beverage list is extensive with premium New Zealand and Australian wines through to refreshing beer including Heineken, Tiger, Erdinger, Murphy’s Stout, Amstel Light, Tui, Tui Blond, Export 33, Export Gold and the Monteith’s range including Monteith’s Crushed Apple Cider on tap.”