Auckland Zoo's three Bornean orangutans are about to jump on a plane to Christchurch to begin a two-year stay at their new home.

Charlie, Melur and Wanita will live at Orana Wildlife Park from Thursday while Auckland Zoo builds its South East Asian precinct.

Moving the orangutans involves two road trips and a 2.5-hour flight in specifically designed transportation crates.

There is already a lot of anticipation for the orangutans' arrival, whose stay in Christchurch will see Orana privileged to hold the only gorillas and orangutans in New Zealand, says the park's chief executive Lynn Anderson.

"Charlie, Melur and Wanita are going to be housed in our great ape centre, next to our magnificent gorillas.

"This centre enables people to experience and connect with these impressive primates and learn about the threats these critically endangered animals face."

Construction of Auckland Zoo's new Sumatra-focused precinct, due to be completed by early 2020, is part of a $120 million, 10-year redevelopment programme.

KNOW YOUR ORANGUTANS:
* They are the world's largest tree-dwelling mammal
* They are 97 per cent genetically similar to humans
* The Bornean orangutan is critically endangered due to illegal deforestation for palm oil plantations.