Critter Encounter

Looking for hands-on fun for your next birthday party or event?

Our critter encounters are a 45 minute hands-on learning experience and opportunity to meet, touch and handle some of Blackbutt's favourite animals in the Wildlife Arena. Critter Encounters are a favourite with children's birthday parties, allowing groups of up to 30 participants to share in this enjoyable  encounter. The encounter is hosted in the Wildlife Arena, with access by the Wildlife Boardwalk from the Carnley Reserve car park. Participants will need to allocate time before the encounter to walk along the Boardwalk to arrive at the Arena for the encounter to start on time. 

As the wildlife arena is covered, the encounters are held in all types of weather. Therefore, if it is raining, the encounter will still go ahead.

Great for kids' parties and corporate events and can be arranged with shelter hire!

Sound like a perfect addition to your event or day out? You can easily book through our online booking platform, Bookable as a stand alone item or with shelter hire by clicking the 'Book here' button below. Don’t forget to view our how-to guide for easy step-by-step instructions!

Please note that if the shelter or animal encounter you are interested in is greyed out on your selected date in the booking system, it means it is already fully booked. Kindly choose a different shelter or select an alternative date to proceed with your booking.

To make a Booking or an Enquiry, you will be prompted to "Register". Registering will ensure a seamless Booking experience, allowing you to review and manage your booking. Plus, this will help you book other facilities that City of Newcastle manage.