Plans are progressing for new glamping accommodation at Territory Wildlife Park.
Upgraded school and youth camping facilities are part of the proposal.
Finocchiaro CLP Government continues to work to unlock private investment and create new tourism experiences in Territory parks.
The Finocchiaro CLP Government's push to unlock new tourism opportunities in Territory parks is gaining momentum, with a local proponent progressing plans for a glamping development at the Territory Wildlife Park.
The proposed development at Berry Springs would introduce a new nature-based accommodation experience, giving visitors the opportunity to stay overnight surrounded by Territory wildlife, just a short drive from Darwin.
Importantly, the proposal also includes upgraded facilities for school and youth camping groups, ensuring young Territorians can continue to enjoy outdoor education and camping experiences at the park.
Minister for Tourism and Hospitality and Parks and Wildlife Marie-Clare Boothby said the proposal was an example of the new tourism opportunities the Government was encouraging across the Territory.
"Our parks are one of our greatest assets, and we're determined to unlock their potential for tourism, investment and local jobs," Minister Boothby said.
"Imagine waking up in the heart of the Territory bush, surrounded by the iconic sounds of native wildlife such as curlews, cockies and kookaburras, just a short drive from Darwin.
"That's the kind of unique experience visitors are looking for, and exactly the sort of opportunity we want to encourage.
"We know our parks already attract more than three million visits a year. The opportunity is to turn more of those day trips into overnight stays, giving visitors more reasons to stay longer and explore further and spend more in our regions."
An expression of interest process for the Territory Wildlife Park glamping opportunity commenced in November 2025, with a local proponent identified as the preferred proponent.
The proposal is now progressing through the Exceptional Development Permit process, with public submissions open until midnight on 30 October 2026.
Territory Wildlife Park Director Rob Hall said the development had the potential to create a new tourism experience while improving facilities for local Territorians.
"We are thrilled to be progressing a glamping and enhanced school nature camp at the Territory Wildlife Park.
"The proposal currently on public exhibition features a unique nature-based immersion experiences on Park that will create lasting memories for visitors and students alike.
"The Territory Wildlife Park is committed to enhancing the eco-tourism experience in our region and becoming a gateway to our awesome Litchfield National Park."
The proposal follows the CLP Government's announcement of new tourism investment opportunities at the NT Investment Summit in July, including:
Safari-style camping and guided nature experiences in Litchfield National Park.Redevelopment of Jalmurark Campground in Elsey National Park.Premium accommodation and nocturnal wildlife experiences at Alice Springs Desert Park.Boutique heritage accommodation at Tennant Creek Telegraph Station.
The Government is continuing to engage with potential investors and operators to progress these opportunities.
Minister Boothby said attracting new tourism experiences was central to the Territory's Visitor Economy Strategy 2032.
"Across Australia and around the world, wildlife parks and zoos are offering unique overnight accommodation experiences that allow visitors to connect with nature in a completely different way," Minister Boothby said.
"Places like Dubbo have shown how popular these experiences can be, and there's no reason we shouldn't be exploring similar opportunities right here in the Territory."
The proposed Wildlife Park development remains subject to the relevant planning and approval processes.
