This honestly sounds like it's going to be a fun thread. Nothing quite like an apocalyptic story. Full of survival, drama, and psychological problems slowly developing in once innocent character. The precise definition of fun!
As for magic and the like, I agree with you all. No matter whether the apocalypse is caused by magic or science, the zombies seem like enough supernatural influence for a realistic thread. But whether or not you decide to use it, count me in!