Funeral for mauled keeper

Samantha Kudeweh. Photo: Hamilton Zoo
Samantha Kudeweh. Photo: Hamilton Zoo
Hamilton Zoo is closed today as the funeral is held for one of its much-loved senior staff members who was mauled by a tiger.

Samantha Kudeweh (43) was killed by one of the zoo's tigers, Oz, on September 20.

The Hamilton City Council, which owns the zoo, is remaining tight-lipped on how the attack happened but council chief executive executive Richard Briggs would only comment that staff are not supposed to be in the same enclosure as tigers.

The service is being held at the Hamilton Gardens.

Mr Briggs earlier said he was expecting a large turnout, including zoo professionals from Australia and around the world.

The Kudeweh Family Trust's givealittle page, set up to support her two young children and husband, has so far raised more than $20,500.

Mr Briggs confirmed there were no plans to send Oz to another zoo, as he was integral to the tiger breeding programme.

 

Add a Comment

Our journalists are your neighbours

We are the South's eyes and ears in crucial council meetings, at court hearings, on the sidelines of sporting events and on the frontline of breaking news.

As our region faces uncharted waters in the wake of a global pandemic, Otago Daily Times continues to bring you local stories that matter.

We employ local journalists and photographers to tell your stories, as other outlets cut local coverage in favour of stories told out of Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch.

You can help us continue to bring you local news you can trust by becoming a supporter.

Become a Supporter