NZ’s Only Elephant Starts a New Life in Australia

Burma, a 42-year-old Asian elephant and the last elephant at New Zealand’s Auckland Zoo, has moved to her new home at Monarto Safari Park in Adelaide, Australia.

After 34 years in Auckland, Burma traveled with her caretakers to join a new family herd in the park’s 12-hectare elephant habitat. This move is part of an important program aimed at conserving endangered elephants.

Dr. James Chatterton, Auckland Zoo’s veterinary manager, reported that Burma handled her journey very well, which involved both road and air travel. Although she was tired upon arrival, she is doing well, eating, drinking, and exploring her new surroundings. For now, Burma is in quarantine as she adjusts, and her caretakers are keeping a close eye on her health.

This move allows Burma to live with other elephants for the first time in years. Soon, she will be joined by two elephants each from Perth Zoo and Taronga Zoo in Sydney, creating a “founding family herd.” The Australasian Zoo Aquarium Association, which advocates for endangered species, helped coordinate the transfer to promote elephant welfare and breeding.

Kevin Buley, director of Auckland Zoo, shared mixed emotions about Burma’s departure, saying that although she’ll be missed, joining a herd is best for her. Zoo South Australia’s chief executive, Elaine Bensted, said it’s exciting to bring elephants back to the state for the first time in 30 years and promised that the new habitat will support Burma’s social needs.

Burma’s journey marks the end of an era at Auckland Zoo, where she was a beloved resident for over three decades. Now, she will be cared for in Australia.