Bug Lab Lates

Overview

Following its celebrated debut at Te Papa, the capital's immersive science exhibition Bug Lab has landed in Auckland.

Te Papa's Head of Design Ben Barraud and Weta Workshop's co-founder Richard Taylor orchestrated a team including Te Papa entomologist Dr Phil Sirvid, television "bug man" Ruud Kleinpaste, and University of Canterbury spider scientist Dr Simon Pollard to pull the concept together in six months.

The result is a spectacular immersive and interactive experience for all ages that offers visitors the unique opportunity to learn from the genius of bugs.

Bug Lab Lates is Auckland Zoo's after-hours event where adults are invited to join in the fun with an evening of cocktails, street food and bugs. Attendees will start their evening with a complimentary cocktail before feasting on a diverse range of street food — from gourmet Lalele Organic Gelato to fresh handcut Double Dutch Fries and Kraken Crumpets.

The magical world of Bug Lab then awaits, where attendees can immerse themselves in 3-D bug models, scientific experiment stations and interactive displays. Help the Japanese honeybees defeat the giant hornet, test your reflexes against a lightning-fast orchid mantis and witness a iridescent jewel wasp turn a cockroach into a zombie.

The ticket price includes entry to Bug Lab and one complimentary beverage.