The newborn came into the world at 3.27am (AEDT) yesterday during a protracted labour which initially convinced zoo vets he had died.

But the youngster, who was monitored throughout the night, has delighted keepers with his progress which includes suckling from his Asian mother Porntip and moving about on his feet - without help.

A zoo spokesman says it is an encouraging sign.

"Both he and his mother are well and will be staying in the warm barn today," the spokesman said in a statement today.

"The other elephants, including the zoo's other calf, eight-month old Luk Chai, will be in the exhibit today with access to the barn so they can spend as much time as they wish with the pair."

Keepers and vets will continue to monitor the unnamed calf's progress.