Biology students explore human evolution at Auckland Zoo

Biology students explore human evolution at Auckland Zoo
Posted on September 09, 2026
Replica hominin skulls, prehistoric tools and living primates provided Year 13 NCEA Biology students at Macleans College with a different perspective on human evolution during an educational visit to Auckland Zoo.
The experience gave students an opportunity to examine evidence of human development and connect concepts studied in the classroom with observations in a real-world setting.
The visit formed part of students’ studies for Achievement Standard 91606 (3.6): Demonstrate an understanding of trends in human evolution. Students explored primate and hominin evolution, examining anatomical features and considering how these have changed over time.
Zoo facilitators led interactive sessions examining both the biological and cultural aspects of human evolution. Students worked with replica hominin skulls and prehistoric tools, using physical evidence to explore key concepts from their studies.
A comparative analysis of primate skulls was followed by the Team Quadruped or Team Biped challenge. The activity encouraged students to apply their knowledge while considering the physical characteristics associated with different forms of movement.
Students then explored the zoo independently, with particular attention given to the primate exhibits. Orangutans and gibbons generated considerable interest because they are regularly referenced in classroom discussions about primate evolution and the relationship between modern primates and early hominins.
The visit strengthened students’ understanding by allowing them to examine evolutionary concepts from both a scientific and observational perspective. Seeing living primates alongside physical evidence of human ancestry provided a valuable connection between classroom theory and the evidence used to understand the development of the human species.