Consider a place where unexpected animal encounters and community spirit intertwine. This is Kinderboerderij Diemen. It is a special place in Amsterdam. Let’s uncover the story behind this beloved animal haven.
Kinderboerderij Diemen officially opened on August 31 2005. Amy Koopmanschap was the mayor who did the honors. But its roots go back further. It began with the closure of another petting zoo in Diemen Noord. A group felt the community still needed a place for children to connect with animals.
The Municipality of Diemen agreed. They invited ideas for a new petting zoo. Eventually they selected a winning idea. Then the real work began. The founders established Stichting Kinderboerderij Diemen. They installed a board to oversee the project.
Formal establishment occurred on April 27 2004. Bakker was the notary who formalized it. Even before the physical creation in 2005 preparations were underway. The board negotiated with the Municipality of Diemen. They also applied for necessary permits. These included permits for fencing and land use.
The board also focused on practical matters. They visited a stable builder known for constructing petting zoos. Once permits arrived construction finally began. The result was a fantastic petting zoo.
Two board members already owned animals. They included goats sheep rabbits ducks and geese. These animals became the first residents in July 2005. The animal population grew in August 2005. It welcomed turkeys guinea pigs hamsters and a pony. A donkey also came. In spring 2006 the first animals were born. Six goat kids arrived.
Adjacent to Kinderboerderij Diemen lies the ONA community garden. Some gardeners there kept small poultry. They kept them mainly for eggs. Three gardeners had a deeper passion for animals. This shared interest created a bond.
These gardeners were Ron van der Werf Ton Mies and Ron van Koningsveld. Ron van der Werf even had goats. They drew attention from fellow gardeners and passersby. They often asked to watch the animals. Children especially enjoyed it. Ron van der Werf learned about a municipal initiative. It sought ideas that would benefit the community. He saw an opportunity.
Around that time Mr. Hartsink scaled back his animal hobby. He had kept them near the railway in Diemen Noord. This place was unofficially known as “the kinderboerderij”. It was a popular spot especially for children. Knowing it would disappear and with the municipality’s initiative Ron decided to act.
He joined forces with Ton Mies and Ron van Koningsveld. Together they developed an idea to create a real petting zoo. They knew the community wanted such a place. They created a financial plan and drafted statutes. They submitted zoning amendments and building plans. In April 2004 they established a foundation. The board expanded including Petra Oostenrijk and Ingrid van Koningsveld. The municipality approved their idea. They finally realized their dream.
Today Kinderboerderij Diemen features traditional animals. You can also see unexpected ones. Meet Bas the donkey. Greet Koko and Robbin the alpacas. Say hello to Mackey and Billy the ponies. You’ll also find dwarf parrots pheasants goats peacocks and turtles.
Kinderboerderij Diemen often hosts children’s activities. Check their website for the current schedule. It is located at Prins Bernhardlaan 2a in Diemen. Kinderboerderij Diemen continues to offer joy to visitors. It offers connection with animals. The petting zoo is open daily from 10:00 to 16:00.