Orana Wildlife Park Orana Wildlife Park News 2025

Zoofan15

Zoofan15

Well-Known Member
10+ year member
Orana Wildlife Park appoints new CEO:

From socials:

We’re thrilled to report that Rachel Haydon has been appointed as our new Chief Executive!

Orana is set to embark on an exciting new era of growth and innovation, with the appointment of Rachel as our new Chief Executive.

Rachel brings more than two decades of experience in conservation, education, and leadership and will take the reins in two months’ time becoming the third leader in Orana’s 48-year history.

Rachel joins Orana from the National Aquarium of New Zealand (Napier) where she has served as Director for more than five years.

Rachel is eager to step into the role in the coming months and is excited about the opportunities ahead, as are our team!
 
Zoofan15 said:
Orana Wildlife Park appoints new CEO:

From socials:

We’re thrilled to report that Rachel Haydon has been appointed as our new Chief Executive!

Orana is set to embark on an exciting new era of growth and innovation, with the appointment of Rachel as our new Chief Executive.

Rachel brings more than two decades of experience in conservation, education, and leadership and will take the reins in two months’ time becoming the third leader in Orana’s 48-year history.

Rachel joins Orana from the National Aquarium of New Zealand (Napier) where she has served as Director for more than five years.

Rachel is eager to step into the role in the coming months and is excited about the opportunities ahead, as are our team!
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I do hope they can leave the BS age behind them now.
 
I must admit, I wasn't super impressed with the National Aquarium last time I went, which was about a year ago, but aquariums do tend to develop infrastructure problems as they age and I understand that the National Aquarium in particular has been having funding problems. Hopefully Orana will prove to be a better fit.
 
Zoofan15 said:
We do want to share some positive news with you too. Two delightful whio ducklings hatched and will be released to the wild once mature.
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On February 7th, the zoo announced that the 2 blue ducks were released into the wild.

Orana Wildlife Park

On March 5th, the zoo announced that 3 orange-fronted parakeets were part of a new population released onto Anchor Island.

75 reactions | Big news for kākāriki karaka this week! A new population is being established on Pukenui/Anchor Island and we are thrilled that three Orana hatched... | By Orana Wildlife Park | Facebook

On March 19th, the zoo announced they constructed new climbing structures inside the black-and-white ruffed lemur exhibit.

6.4K views · 210 reactions | Have you seen our revamped black & white ruffed lemur island? The team have worked hard to refurbish the island with new climbing structures, lots of... | By Orana Wildlife Park | Facebook
 
Orange-fronted parakeet release:

From socials:

We were thrilled to have seven of our precious Orange-fronted parakeet chicks join 13 more from our friends at The Isaac Conservation and Wildlife Trust for the second release EVER of Orange-fronted parakeet to Anchor Island just over a week ago!

Anchor Island is one of only a few predator-free sanctuaries where this species can be released to safely. Our team are privileged to be helping to populate this recently established site.

The third and final release of the season is scheduled for next month.
 
Final Orange-fronted parakeet release of the season:

From socials:

The third and final group of Orange-fronted parakeet for the season have headed off to Pukenui/Anchor Island in Fiordland today, along with birds from The Isaac Conservation and Wildlife Trust.

In total this season 80 Orange-fronted parakeet have been released to the island which is an incredible achievement!
 
Death of male Tasmanian devil:

From socials:

It is with much sadness that we share the news of the sudden passing of our beloved Tasmanian devil, Talei, at the age of 7. Recently, our dedicated animal care team noticed that Talei wasn't quite himself and immediately alerted our veterinary team. Despite receiving prompt medical attention, his condition deteriorated rapidly, and he sadly passed away.

Talei has been a cherished member of the Orana family since he arrived as a juvenile in 2019. He captured hearts around the world in 2021 when he became the first Tasmanian devil to receive a hip replacement, a groundbreaking procedure that gave him a new lease on life.
 
Animal transfers and breeding programme recommendations can resume:

Fantastic news for Orana Wildlife Park!

Orana Wildlife Park resumes full operations after meeting animal welfare requirements - Chris Lynch Media

Orana Wildlife Park has resumed full participation in breeding programmes and animal transfers after meeting all requirements set by the Zoo and Aquarium Association (ZAA), following a six-month review triggered by workplace and animal welfare concerns.

Congratulations to Orana’s dedicated and hardworking team. Fingers crossed that one of the new acquisitions will a long-awaited mate for their male Sumatran tiger, with my money being on Cahya at Auckland Zoo.
 
Zoofan15 said:
Animal transfers and breeding programme recommendations can resume:

Fantastic news for Orana Wildlife Park!

Orana Wildlife Park resumes full operations after meeting animal welfare requirements - Chris Lynch Media

Orana Wildlife Park has resumed full participation in breeding programmes and animal transfers after meeting all requirements set by the Zoo and Aquarium Association (ZAA), following a six-month review triggered by workplace and animal welfare concerns.

Congratulations to Orana’s dedicated and hardworking team. Fingers crossed that one of the new acquisitions will a long-awaited mate for their male Sumatran tiger, with my money being on Cahya at Auckland Zoo.
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So Monarto, Dubbo and Werribee can get their new rhinos now?

also saw this article:
The Press
 
Luke899 said:
So Monarto, Dubbo and Werribee can get their new rhinos now?

also saw this article:
The Press
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If you’re referring to the Australian Rhino Project, there’s a lot of red tape beyond Orana’s investigation including South Africa’s changing stance on exports.

What I’m more optimistic for is Monarto’s plans to import three Southern rhinoceros from Europe. At least one of these is reported to be coming to New Zealand and my prediction is it’s a bull for Orana.

Monarto’s import (and the influx of breeding recommendations in the region of late) adds weight to the speculation the Australian Rhino Project import has been canned, but I note nothing has been officially confirmed by any of the zoos involved.
 
Deaths of Giraffe and Plains zebra:

Some sad news regarding the deaths of a Giraffe cow (Mdomo) and a Plains zebra colt (Zeeyore):

From socials:

It is with much sadness that we share the news of the recent passing of Mdomo, a 12-year-old giraffe, and Zeeyore, a five-month-old zebra foal.

Mdomo tragically passed away on Friday afternoon following a general anaesthetic (GA) the week prior. Mdomo had developed a notable lump on her right cheek, suspected to be a feed impaction resulting from an underlying dental issue, and our team observed a gradual decline in her behaviour.

A detailed protocol for the GA was developed over many weeks in consultation with the veterinary team at Rangiora Vet Clinic owing to the risks of anaesthesia, particularly for a large mammal. The procedure involved a multi-disciplinary team of four vets and twenty Orana staff members each with special roles. The procedure went to plan with a full clinical examination carried out, as well as blood sampling, head and dental radiographs, oral inspection and hoof check, though there was no definitive cause identified for the impaction issues.

Mdomo recovered from the procedure well, initially. Two days following the GA her condition declined, and she slowly deteriorated over the week despite multiple vet visits, a treatment plan, and the best efforts of the Orana team. Sadly, her condition worsened on Friday morning and following further vet inspection, the team made the kindest decision to euthanase Mdomo. The post-mortem indicates the cause of decline leading Mdomo’s passing was a significant reduction in gut movement which can be a complication following sedation.

The loss of Mdomo is compounded by the devastating passing of Zeeyore, a delightful zebra foal, earlier in the month. Zeeyore was under constant veterinary monitoring since birth and our dedicated animal care team worked tirelessly with Zeeyore to supplement his feed, but he sadly never progressed. The post-mortem revealed that mis-mothering may have been the main cause of his passing. He had a history of failing to thrive since birth and was weaned early by his first time mum, which sadly led to his premature passing. His name was inspired by Eeyore for his gentle, quiet spirit. Earlier this year, we announced the arrival of Herbie and Zeeyore, the first zebra foals to be born at Orana in 30 years. Zeeyore has left a lasting impression on the team, and he will be dearly missed.
 
Male giraffe leaving soon:

Kevin’s departure will leave the zoo with three female giraffe - Harriet (2012), Shira (2013) and Kamili (2018); with the latter being the mother of Kevin.

From socials:

Kevin’s Big Road Trip! Our much-loved young giraffe Kevin (2.5 years old and full of charm) is about to set off on a new adventure! Soon, he’ll be heading north to Hamilton Zoo to join a bachelor herd alongside Masamba (22) and Jabali (2), where he’ll continue to grow and thrive.

While Kevin can’t stay with our females long-term, this move is an important step in his journey. He’s a curious, cheeky character who’s brought endless smiles to our team, visitors, and community. From zoomies around his habitat to his inquisitive stares, Kevin has made quite the impression! We’ll miss him dearly, but we’re excited for what’s ahead.

Please note that transfer dates may change due to logistics, animal welfare, and staffing needs, our top priority is ensuring the best care and a smooth transfer for Kevin
 
Kevin (male giraffe) has transferred out:

Kevin left Orana Wildlife Park this morning to begin his journey to Hamilton Zoo:

The Press

Hawke said now was the right time to send Kevin north, due to his age and breeding constraints within the current herd and broader management of the species.

“Kevin can’t breed with our girls here. Although the transfer is bittersweet, he’s going to a great place. Bachelor herds are common, and he’ll have a fantastic time up there.”
 
Orana Wildlife Park Masterplan:

A masterplan is being drawn up for Orana Wildlfie Park. Excitingly it will involve the input of Studio Hanson/Roberts (the architects that created Auckland Zoo’s South East Asia track among other projects across North America and Australasia).

https://www.thepress.co.nz/nz-news/360901444/international-zoo-designers-say-orana-
park-needs-work-fulfil-potential

Designer Becca Hanson and her husband David Roberts run Studio Hanson/Roberts in Seattle in the United States and have been commissioned to write a plan for the wildlife park. They arrived in Christchurch this week after spending time at Auckland Zoo.

An “open-range experience“ with mixed herds, where vehicles could drive through, is an idea they will pitch to the park, she said.

She also likes the idea of a braided river theme at the park, and making the best of both the exotic and native animals on display.
 
Zoofan15 said:
Orana Wildlife Park Masterplan:

A masterplan is being drawn up for Orana Wildlfie Park. Excitingly it will involve the input of Studio Hanson/Roberts (the architects that created Auckland Zoo’s South East Asia track among other projects across North America and Australasia).

https://www.thepress.co.nz/nz-news/360901444/international-zoo-designers-say-orana-
park-needs-work-fulfil-potential

Designer Becca Hanson and her husband David Roberts run Studio Hanson/Roberts in Seattle in the United States and have been commissioned to write a plan for the wildlife park. They arrived in Christchurch this week after spending time at Auckland Zoo.

An “open-range experience“ with mixed herds, where vehicles could drive through, is an idea they will pitch to the park, she said.

She also likes the idea of a braided river theme at the park, and making the best of both the exotic and native animals on display.
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The article was a bit short on details about what Orana will eventually look like, probably because those details haven't been finalised yet, but this looks very promising. I've never had the opportunity to go to Orana in person, but from everything I know about the park it's got huge potential, especially as NZ's only open-range zoo.

I like the idea of turning it into a proper safari park. They've got the space for it. I imagine the focus will still be primarily be on native and African animals, which was true for Orana in the past and tends to be the approach taken by open-range zoos in Australasia.

I found the quote about cooperating with other zoos to manage herds and breeding programmes intriguing - not only does Orana have more space than any other zoo in NZ, but NZ also has much more permissive import laws with regards to antelope than Australia. Orana could see itself become an import and breeding hub in the future. There are great opportunities on the horizon.
 
ElephasMaximus said:
The article was a bit short on details about what Orana will eventually look like, probably because those details haven't been finalised yet, but this looks very promising. I've never had the opportunity to go to Orana in person, but from everything I know about the park it's got huge potential, especially as NZ's only open-range zoo.

I like the idea of turning it into a proper safari park. They've got the space for it. I imagine the focus will still be primarily be on native and African animals, which was true for Orana in the past and tends to be the approach taken by open-range zoos in Australasia.

I found the quote about cooperating with other zoos to manage herds and breeding programmes intriguing - not only does Orana have more space than any other zoo in NZ, but NZ also has much more permissive import laws with regards to antelope than Australia. Orana could see itself become an import and breeding hub in the future. There are great opportunities on the horizon.
Click to expand...

Orana Wildlife Park has a lot of potential, which will only be realised with investment. Orana doesn’t receive ongoing government funding, so that will be always be the challenge. According to the article, they’ll be aiming to undertake fundraising next year in line with their 50th birthday celebrations.

The masterplan has yet to be finalised, so I wouldn’t expect any details to come out until next year. If they’re undertaking large scale fundraising, they’ll need to motivate people with concepts of what they’ll be donating to/supporting.

I assume it’ll mostly be new/improved exhibits for the species they have; though I would love to see them import a decent sized breeding herd of bongo, which would be a huge asset to the region.

The African lions are arguably the biggest asset to Orana at the present (along with the gorillas), so I’ll be interested to see if any investment goes into their facilities. Perhaps a larger den building to better support the housing of multiple prides. The existing den enables breeding, but not ongoing development of multiple prides/succession.
 
Zoofan15 said:
Orana Wildlife Park has a lot of potential, which will only be realised with investment. Orana doesn’t receive ongoing government funding, so that will be always be the challenge. According to the article, they’ll be aiming to undertake fundraising next year in line with their 50th birthday celebrations.

The masterplan has yet to be finalised, so I wouldn’t expect any details to come out until next year. If they’re undertaking large scale fundraising, they’ll need to motivate people with concepts of what they’ll be donating to/supporting.

I assume it’ll mostly be new/improved exhibits for the species they have; though I would love to see them import a decent sized breeding herd of bongo, which would be a huge asset to the region.

The African lions are arguably the biggest asset to Orana at the present (along with the gorillas), so I’ll be interested to see if any investment goes into their facilities. Perhaps a larger den building to better support the housing of multiple prides. The existing den enables breeding, but not ongoing development of multiple prides/succession.
Click to expand...

I could see them importing a few new antelope species. They housed a much greater diversity of species in the past, and more kinds of antelope would really enhance a drive-through safari experience. Currently they only house addax, nyala, springbok and waterbuck, and the last two species badly need new blood. If they wanted to house additional species, I imagine they'd focus on species that can also be legally imported and kept in Australia, since a population spread over both countries would be easier to maintain.

Other than that, I don't think we have enough information to make any serious speculations. Still, I'll definitely be keeping my eye on this development.
 
Zoofan15 said:
Orana Wildlife Park has a lot of potential, which will only be realised with investment. Orana doesn’t receive ongoing government funding, so that will be always be the challenge. According to the article, they’ll be aiming to undertake fundraising next year in line with their 50th birthday celebrations.

The masterplan has yet to be finalised, so I wouldn’t expect any details to come out until next year. If they’re undertaking large scale fundraising, they’ll need to motivate people with concepts of what they’ll be donating to/supporting.

I assume it’ll mostly be new/improved exhibits for the species they have; though I would love to see them import a decent sized breeding herd of bongo, which would be a huge asset to the region.

The African lions are arguably the biggest asset to Orana at the present (along with the gorillas), so I’ll be interested to see if any investment goes into their facilities. Perhaps a larger den building to better support the housing of multiple prides. The existing den enables breeding, but not ongoing development of multiple prides/succession.
Click to expand...
Perhaps a pair of Hippos would be good to see there if they can work on a IRA for them
 
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