It has been a difficult day for New Zealand zoos as two much-loved animals have been farewelled: Auckland Zoo’s last remaining fur seal, Ōrua, and Hamilton Zoo’s elderly giraffe Masamba.
Auckland Zoo today euthanised Ōrua, the last remaining seal or sealions held in any New Zealand zoo, marking the end of a significant chapter in the country's captive marine mammal history.
Subantarctic fur seal Ōrua was 20 years old, a near maximum age for his species, and lived almost his entire life at the zoo after being rescued as a malnourished pup in 2006.
The zoo said its specialist marine habitat had deteriorated beyond repair and could no longer provide the environment required for the elderly animal’s welfare.
"It’s been an extremely difficult decision for our carnivore and veterinary teams who have been so instrumental in providing Ōrua with the dedicated care and a life he would not otherwise have had," said Auckland Zoo director Kevin Buley.
"However, in these circumstances, this decision to euthanise him is absolutely the correct one, giving Ōrua the dignified and peaceful end of life he so deserves."
Ōrua had several age-related health issues, including severe visual impairment. His keepers said despite those challenges, he remained an engaging, charismatic presence who formed deep bonds with animal care staff.
Carnivore team leader Nick Parashchak said caring for the "wonderfully smart and curious" fur seal over nearly two decades had been a privilege.
"In his over 19 years at the zoo, he has been an incredible ambassador for marine life and marine conservation," Parashchak said.
"As the last seal or sealion in a zoo or aquarium in New Zealand, the loss of Ōrua marks the end of an era. He leaves behind a very special legacy."
Hamilton Zoo also today announced the death of Masamba, its elderly giraffe, following what staff described as a compassionate and heartbreaking decision.
In a post shared to Facebook, the zoo said Masamba’s health had been steadily declining due to his age, despite intensive care and monitoring.
"As many of you know, Masamba’s health had been declining. Unfortunately, no amount of love and care could have changed the inevitable outcome,” the zoo said.
"Today, we acted on the heartbreaking but humane decision to assist his passing."
The zoo said Masamba died surrounded by the keepers who had cared for him for years, a team who were “deeply saddened” by the loss.
"Masamba was an incredible soul who taught us so much. Today, we say farewell, holding close every memory and every moment he shared with us,"
"Thank you for loving him alongside us."
Masamba celebrated his 23rd birthday last month – a milestone the zoo called "amazing" for a giraffe, who have an average lifespan of around 20-25 years.
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