25 May 2011

Auckland Council's Strategy and Finance Committee has voted to approve Auckland Zoo's proposal to acquire two young female Asian elephants.

The vote came after reassurances that the acquisition would come at zero cost to ratepayers and that animal welfare and conservation would remain primary considerations for the Zoo.

The Mayor says the decision is an important step as the new Auckland implements its strategy to become an events capital and a destination rather than a gateway.

"It's also great news for Auckland's children," says Len Brown. "Few of us get the chance to see these majestic animals in the wild and it's great to be able to experience these wonderful creatures up close in a world class zoo environment."

Strategy and Finance Chair Penny Webster says it's important to note that Aucklanders will able to benefit from two extra elephants without any negative impact on rates.

"We're pleased that the council has listened to our proposal which confirms the animal welfare conservation and financial safeguards associated with accepting the gift of these elephants," says Regional Facilities Auckland Chairman Sir Don McKinnon.

Auckland Zoo's Director, Jonathan Wilcken says the way is now clear for the Zoo to find a family for Burma.

"The focus for the Zoo now is to find two suitable young elephants from abroad that will be compatible with Burma," says Mr Wilcken.

"The process of bringing them here is likely to be lengthy and could take several months."

"Once the right pair are found, they will have to undergo a quarantine programme in their country of origin. Then, accompanied by a small team of elephant specialists, they'll be sent by air to the island of Niue for further medical checks and quarantine procedures before coming to Auckland."

On arrival at Auckland Zoo, the new elephants will be gradually introduced to Burma, allowing her to establish herself as the head of the group.

Mr Wilcken said that leading zoos like Auckland Zoo that have elephants, work together to actively help protect and conserve Asian elephants in the wild.

"Auckland Zoo supports habitat protection in Sumatra's Bukit Tigapuluh National Park where the elephant population has increased from an estimated 40 to 140 elephants."

The two new young elephants are likely to arrive at Auckland Zoo in the second half of next year.

ENDS

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