Mabel McClelland, who racked up more than 30,000 hours as a
volunteer at Christchurch's Orana Wildlife Park, has died.
She was 84.
Ms McClelland was made a member of the New Zealand Order of
Merit (MNZM) in the 2007 New Year's Honours List for her
services to wildlife.
She died last Thursday and her funeral will be held in
Christchurch tomorrow.
"Mabel was an amazingly generous woman who truly loved the
park," said Orana chief executive Lynn Anderson.
"She used to volunteer every weekday through the year but in
the school holidays would work seven days a week.
"She is the only park volunteer to have amassed 30,000 hours
-- that's the equivalent of 14 years full time work, an
incredible achievement."
As well as volunteering at the park for more than 20 years,
Ms McClelland personally funded two animal exhibits (Siamang
Gibbon ape and otters) and provided money to complete another
habitat (Kopje Rock containing meerkats and porcupines).
She also raised thousands of dollars through face painting
and selling raffle tickets at the park.
"Mabel was very much part of Orana Wildlife Park and will be
missed," Ms Anderson said.
