Christchurch’s embattled Orana Wildlife Park has today confirmed it has maintained its animal welfare accreditation after meeting all requirements set by the Zoo and Aquarium Association of Australasia.
A temporary pause on incoming animal transfers from other zoos was put in place in December following a major investigation into its animal welfare procedures and culture. The pause was lifted today following a scheduled six-month review by the association.
Issues at the zoo were first raised by a 1News investigation into the park involving 20 current and former Orana staff raised concerns about the way staff – and animals – were treated.
The whistleblowers leaked photos and videos that exposed several previously unreported incidents at the park, including a baby giraffe that was found dead shortly after its birth in 2021.
Some also claimed managers had ignored animal welfare concerns when they raised them.
Significant change is coming to the Christchurch zoo, following an independent investigation by the Zoo and Aquarium Association. (Source: 1News)
An independent investigation was launched by the Zoo and Aquarium Association soon afterwards. In its final report, delivered last December, the association highlighted findings and required actions across several areas including animal welfare processes, organisational systems, health and safety, asset management, and workplace culture.
The management of the zoo has transformed since the initial investigation was published in July, following the resignation of the park’s longtime CEO Lynn Anderson after 28 years at the helm. It was followed by the departure of the manager of exotic species in March this year.
Orana today said the Zoo and Aquarium Association had confirmed all required improvements relating to systems, policies and processes had been met. It meant the zoo could now resume full participation in species programmes and incoming animal transfers.
Orana Wildlife Trust board co-chair, Emeritus Professor Ken Hughey, said the outcome reflected the organisation’s commitment to positive and lasting change.
“This is a significant step forward. Our team has worked tirelessly to strengthen governance, systems, and processes. The Zoo and Aquarium Association review has been a catalyst for transformation, and we’re proud of the progress made,” Hughey said.
“We also acknowledge and appreciate the collaborative and constructive approach taken by Zoo and Aquarium Association throughout this process. Together, we’ve achieved a result that strengthens outcomes for animals, staff, and our wider community.”
Hughey also thanked “the people of Canterbury and beyond for standing by us”.
The zoo was now implementing Future Focused, a five-year initiative in the hope of “strengthening animal welfare practices, enhancing our organisational culture, and ensuring long-term sustainability”, he said.
“This includes the establishment of a new Animal Welfare Advisory Group to provide independent guidance and ensure ongoing best practice in animal care.”
