3 Days of Evidence: Auckland Zoo Giraffes Denied Shelter During Severe Weather

Описание: This footage documents welfare concerns at Auckland Zoo's Africa Safari Track giraffe enclosure across three separate weather events in January-February 2026.

JANUARY 15, 2026
Giraffes observed running toward gate area during rainfall. Gates to indoor shelter are closed.

JANUARY 21, 2026 (MetService Severe Weather Warning)
During heavy rain (46mm) and 63km/h wind gusts:
2:00 PM - Giraffes standing by zebra shelter in the rain
3:20 PM - Zookeeper actively leads zebras inside for shelter
3:30 PM - Giraffe night house gate confirmed open, but not visible from giraffes' location
4:00-5:00 PM - Giraffes remain standing in rain despite open gate

FEBRUARY 2, 2026
Giraffes standing in rain. Gates visible in frame and closed.

The Code of Welfare (Zoos) 1 October 2018, Minimum Standard No. 7 requires:
"Animals in terrestrial environments must be provided with sufficient shelter and shade to provide protection from extremes of wind, rain, flooding, temperature and glare for their comfort and welfare."

Auckland Zoo's reliance on an indoor "night house" appears insufficient when:
Gates are sometimes closed during inclement weather
Even when open, the shelter is not visible or accessible to the animals
Other species (zebras) are actively sheltered by staff while giraffes remain outside

The Ministry for Primary Industries has been notified of this potential Code violation.

Full article: aucklandzoowatch.substack.com

#AucklandZoo #AnimalWelfare #Giraffes #NewZealand