Meerkat encounters, ferris wheel, otters and baboon babies at Sydney Zoo

Though it isn't quite in the Hawkesbury, Sydney Zoo is mighty close to us - and with two weeks of school holidays looming, we may be looking a bit further afield for entertainment.

If you've visited the zoo previously, a bunch of new attractions added to the park in recent months could provide an excuse to get back onto the grounds soon.

The zoo has welcomed some brand new residents - a mischievous pair of otters, and three cheeky baboon babies, so keep an eye out for them these holidays.

Sydney Zoo is also now offering meerkat encounters, allowing punters to get up close and personal with the resident meerkats.

While the pre-booked meerkat encounters are all booked out for the holidays, SYdney Zoo is now taking bookings for further down the track.

During a meerkat encounter, visitors will have the chance to feed the meerkats, snap a photo with them and learn more about these African favourites.

A brand new ferris wheel has been erected at the park, offering sweeping views of western Sydney - and the full breadth of Sydney Zoo. By purchasing a ticket to the ferris wheel, you'll contribute to the zoo's Sumatran Orangutan Conservation Programme.

Sydney Zoo is located on the Great Western Highway at Bungarribee, in the Blacktown local government area. Visit sydneyzoo.com to book your tickets.