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Project Update. 

Orana Wildlife Park in Christchurch unable to import animals following inquiries by authorities.

The Australian Rhino Project board this week has been advised that following inquiries by the Zoo and Aquarium Association (ZAA) Australasia and the Ministry for Primary Industries New Zealand (MPI) Orana Wildlife Park will not be allowed to import animals from overseas for at least six months.

The review by ZAA commenced in July 2024 in response to allegations raised in the NZ media. The final report identifies a range of findings and requirements for change in relation to Orana Wildlife Park’s organisational systems and animal welfare processes. It also recommends a full review of the organisation’s culture and strategy.  

Based on the reports and the key findings, a temporary pause on all incoming animal transfers to Orana Wildlife Park has been mandated for a minimum of six months. This pause will allow Orana Wildlife Park to focus its resources on current operations and address the recommendations outlined in the reports.

As a result, the importation of rhinos into New Zealand for quarantine purposes under The Australian Rhino Project will not be possible until Orana is given permission by ZAA and MPI authorities. Given this delay, the Board of The Australian Rhino Project has made the decision to temporarily suspend donations to the project.

While this outcome is disappointing, we remain steadfast in our commitment to our project and supporting the conservation of rhinos. We will continue to work with our partners and stakeholders to explore pathways to advance rhino conservation efforts in the future.