Taronga Zoo Nura Diya Australia
Taronga’s immersive experience, Nura Diya Australia, is home to iconic and rare Australian species and the unique habitats they call home.
Along the 400-metre walking trail, visitors stroll among kangaroos, come paw-to-paw with dingo pups, walk within the tree canopy for a close view of koalas, and venture into the darkness to observe curious, night-loving creatures.
The precinct invites guests to immerse themselves in native Australian flora and fauna, connect with Country, and reconnect with nature. Nura Diya Australia combines five unique landscapes:
Buru nura - Kangaroo Country
Gulamany nura - Koala Country
Wuragal nura - Dingo Country
Nguwing nura – Nocturnal Country
Ngununy nura - Blue Mountains Bush Walk
CLIENT
Taronga Conservation Society / Lahznimmo Architects
LOCATION
Mosman, NSW
COMPLETED
2023
Our Scope
Marshall Day Acoustics provided full acoustic design services for the project, including building acoustics, mechanical services noise control, environmental noise breakout, and construction noise impacts.
A key component was the redevelopment of Targonga’s Nocturnal Habitat, nguwing nura. This immersive space was designed to transport visitors from the busy daytime zoo environment into a quiet, night-time experience. Acoustically, the transition was achieved through a carefully designed entry zone incorporating substantial acoustically absorbent treatment. Together with architectural and lighting design, this ‘acoustic dead zone’ subconsciously cues visitors to lower their voices, preparing them for a more meditative and immersive journey.
Inside nguwing nura, the room acoustic design and heavily attenuated mechanical services noise work seamlessly with the electronic soundscape (commissioned by others) to create a calm, walking-meditation-like environment. The result is a full sensory journey that encourages deep connection to the surroundings.
CHALLENGES
Acoustic considerations for the project extended beyond visitor experience to the wellbeing of animals within the exhibit. In addition to managing internal noise sources such as mechanical services and footfall on overhead boardwalks, our team needed to address external noise impacts. One key concern was noise from bus waiting bays on Bradleys Head Road, which had the potential to affect the koalas in gulamany nura.
We worked closely with Taronga’s zookeepers to assess these impacts, taking into account both noise levels and ambient acoustic context. This collaboration ensured that the final design supported the needs of the animals as well as those of visitors.
PROJECT TEAM
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