Orana Wildlife Park will adopt all recommendations following two independent reviews into its operations and workplace culture.
The reviews were commissioned after anonymous complaints earlier this year prompted media coverage about the Park’s operations.
The Zoo and Aquarium Association (ZAA) Australasia investigated the allegations, while the Orana Wildlife Trust Board engaged Christchurch-based Culture by Design to assess workplace culture.
Both reviews have now been finalised, and the Trust Board has committed to implementing all recommendations, including a proposed Culture Plan.
A key finding from the reviews was the absence of a clear core purpose and vision statement, which had led to uncertainty around the organisation’s direction.
Orana Wildlife Trust Board Co-Chair, Professor Ken Hughey, said, “A primary finding from both reviews was that Orana Wildlife Park lacked a clear and compelling core purpose and vision statement, which had created some uncertainty around the organisation’s direction.
“While the reviews were being conducted, the Board initiated several proactive measures, including the development of a new strategy with a clear core purpose and envisioned future.”
The Ministry for Primary Industries assessed Orana’s operations and found no immediate animal welfare concerns, though some areas for improvement were identified. WorkSafe has confirmed that all improvement notices issued to the Park have been resolved.
“The Orana team remains committed to maintaining and enhancing our systems to uphold animal welfare and our strong safety record,” Hughey said.
He also acknowledged recommendations from the ZAA review, adding, “The ZAA report identified a range of findings and requirements in relation to strengthening Orana Wildlife Park’s animal welfare processes and organisational systems; and further strategic planning, budget planning, and policy reviews for improved asset management, maintenance, and site safety planning.”
Hughey said a temporary pause on all incoming animal transfers has been implemented to allow the Park to focus on current operations and meet other requirements. “This will allow the Park to focus our resources on current operations and completing other requirements identified in the report,” he said.
“Part of our work includes formalising an animal welfare improvement plan. A big part of this plan will be the immediate establishment of an animal welfare advisory group that will incorporate external expertise. This group will work closely with the Board to provide further assurances to stakeholders.”
The reviews also highlighted the need for stronger governance and leadership. Two new Board Co-Chairs have already been appointed, and a new Chief Executive is being sought to guide the Park into the future.
“We have also advertised for a new Chief Executive to lead Orana’s dedicated team and to guide the Park toward an exciting and promising future,” Hughey said.
“We are committed to continuous improvement and to seeking operational innovations. We are addressing the required actions from the ZAA report in an integrated, informed, and collegial fashion.”
Hughey expressed gratitude to staff, adding, “We are grateful to our staff for their participation in these reviews. Orana is embracing a future-focused approach aimed at building strong leadership, team alignment, and strategic clarity.”
“We are genuinely excited about the bright future for Orana Wildlife Park and look forward to welcoming visitors this summer.”
