The Learning Experiences Outside the Classroom (LEOTC) programme, in association with the Ministry of Education, has continued to thrive. Just over 8,000 students came from more than 170 primary and secondary schools this year, with some groups flying in from other parts of the country. The number of groups having an educational sleepover increased, giving these 2,000 students the opportunity to see the Zoo in a unique way. Beyond the LEOTC programme, a further 3,200 students (including preschool, tertiary, and adult education) enjoyed a Living Room experience.

Several Year 13 students have had the wonderful opportunity of coming to the Living Room and discussing patterns and concepts of evolution in the living classroom that is the country's largest primate collection. This learning opportunity is part of the New Zealand NCEA achievement standard and the Zoo serves as a great content resource for teachers.

We also hosted a poetry competition for primary school students. Students were encouraged to write a poem based on animals at the Zoo and prizes were awarded at each syndicate level. The creator of the best overall poem won a Zoopreme Sleepover. Rod McGregor, Senior English Lecturer at Wellington College of Education, judged the competition of nearly 240 entries.