auckland zoo timeline

Auckland Zoo Timeline

(from articles on National Library of NZ Website)Work in progress continuous updates

1922

July 27thAUCKLAND ZOO. (By TELEGRAM— PRESS ASSOCIATION ) AUCKLAND. July 25.

A poll on a proposal to raise £10,000 for the establishment of a zoo of which £800 is for the purchase of the animals in Boyd's zoo at Onehunga, was counted by 2454 votes to 1013.

The Onehunga Zoo has been the subject of considerable litigation, as the proprietors contested a by-law passed by the Borough Council prohibiting the keeping of wild animals.

- 27 July 1922

August

Aucklanders having decided that they should have a zoo it is to be hoped that the attraction will be no slip-shod affair, but that the municipal body will leave no stone unturned to make the zoo one of the chief features of the Queen City.

Whatever money the council will have to disburse in connection with the establishment of the zoo, the site for which has been at the Western Springs, will no doubt be eaten up in the laying out of the grounds, the forming of miniature lakes, and erection of cages for the animals and birds. It will, therefore, depend in no small, measure upon the assistance given by those able to do so m presenting an animal or bird as the case may be.

Already promises have been made and the thanks of Auckland area should be extended to Mr. John Court, who has promised to donate an elephant. Mr. Court is one of Auckland's and New Zealand's most prominent drapers, and a successful business man; but he is one of, those who never fails to respond if the cause is a genuine one.

Apparently the fatherly trail is strong within him, because it was he who provided the bars, swings, slides, etc., now at Victoria Park and so much used and enjoyed by the kiddies of the city. His "heart must be in 'em" as the saying goes, because, in making his offer to provide the zoo with a "Jumbo," he made it clear that he did so on the

condition that the children for 12 months were to be provided with free rides on the elephant. There is an old proverb which sets out that a man can be judged by the company he keeps, but 'Truth" prefers the man whose heart goes out to the children, and this applies to Mr. John Court.

Young Aucklanders' should be proud of him.

- NZ Truth 5 August 1922

September6thReplying to the Hon. G. M. Thomson, the Leader of the Council stated that the Auckland City Council had received permission to keep a kiwi in captivity in the Auckland Zoo.

- Evening Post 6 September 1922

1923January

February13th Indian elephant Elephas maximus indicusArrangements announced for the transportation of Jamuna to New Zealand

The elephant given by Mr. John Court to the Auckland Zoological Gardens will reach Auckland in April, arrangements having been made to ship it from its present home at the Alipore Zoo, India, in March. In his donation Mr.Court has had a careful selection made, and Jamuna, as the elephant has been christened, is a young female which is thoroughly tame, and has been accustomed to carrying children on its back, states the "Auckland Star." The purchase price and all expenses of landing the elephant at its new home in Grey Lynn will run to about £450. Mr.Court has stipulated that for the first year rides on the back of Jamuna shall be free to children.

- Evening Post 13 February 1923

Sea Lion shot and Ostrich killed by vandalshttp://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/cgi-bin/paperspast?a=d&cl=search&d=EP19230227.2.88&srpos=34&e=-------100--1----0auckland+zoo --

April12th

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Donation by Mr William Elliot of £102 for the purchase of birds for Auckland Zoo

Mr William Elliot has donated the sum of £102 for the purchase of birds for the Auckland Zoo. These are to include 144 mixed parrots, including pennants, rosellas, quarrians, red rumps and budgerigars, little green pigeons, peaceful doves, partridge pigeons, diamond sparrows, chestnut finches, zebra and Northern Territory finches

- Evening Post 12 April 1923

Enderby Island Fur Seals obtained via NZ Government Expedition to Sub Antarctic Islandshttp://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/cgi-bin/paperspast?a=d&cl=search&d=EP19230418.2.72&srpos=47&e=-------100--1----0auckland+zoo--

June9thConcerns Raised about Sir Ernest Shackleton’s ‘Eskimo Dog’ having inadequate accommodation at Auckland Zoo reported

Much as has been done to make comfortable the animals kept in captivity at the Auckland Zoo there is a feeling that some of the inmates have been overlooked, and an effort is now on foot to have the matter remedied, states the "Auckland Star." Exception is taken to the inadequate accommodation given to the lonely Eskimo dog that came from the Shackleton pack. Several humane people are now endeavouring to have a larger space set apart for the dog. For an ordinary dog the space allotted would perhaps be enough, but for an animal of the habits of the Eskimo variety it is urged something allowing more freedom should be provided.

Arrival of Jamuna at Kings Wharf Auckland

The first appearance of the Auckland City Council's gift elephant Jamuna before the Auckland public on Wednesday proved very disappointing, as aha ignored the welcome awaiting her and refused to come ashore from the steamer, states the "New Zealand Herald." The "official landing" was feed for 3 o'clock, at which hour a large number of people had gathered on the King's Wharf to welcome their new pet. At the appointed time Jamuna was unchained from the ringbolts and led to the heavy wooden gangway rigged specially to hold her weight. The journey to the wharf, however, proved too fearsome for the beast, for, after testing the gangway thoroughly with her trunk, she refused to go any further. The Indian attendant, as well as the ship's officials and the company's stevedores, all tried to coax the animal to step on to the gangway. All their endeavours proved without avail, the only result being that the elephant knelt on the deck as if praying to be left alone. The situation was most humorous. An inclined approach of hatches was then made to the gangway but this was not considered to be any improvement by the elephant, as she then sat on her haunches and moaned feebly. About half an hour was spent in trying to induce Jamuna to take the risk, but she could not be persuaded. Each time she was induced to move she either knelt on the deck or sprawled out and refused to put her fore feet on the gangway. The attempt was then abandoned and Jamuna was led back to her



quarters on deck and again chained up. Jamuna was landed safely on Thursday morning.

- Evening Post 9 June 1923

28th

Three American Bison to arrive shortly at the zoo from Alberta Canada

An arrangement for the gift of three bison to the Auckland Zoo was made some time ago by the Mayor of Auckland (Mr. J. H. Gunson), and this addition to the present nucleus of a collection of wild animals will shortly be received. A recent Canadian news bulletin received by the Canadian Trade Commissioner, Mr. W. A. Beddoe, states that arrangements were being made for the transfer to Auckland of one male and two female bison from Wainwright Park, Alberta, one of the Canadian Government national parks, which contains the largest herd of bison in the world.

Jamuna still in temporary quarters at Municipal Depot.Contract for Elephant House

The elephant Jamuna, the gift of Mr.John Court, is still in temporary quarters at the municipal depot in Freeman's Bay, but later it will be housed in an elephant's concrete house at the Zoo, a contract for the erection of which has been let by the City Council (states the "New Zealand Herald").

- Evening Post 28 June 1923

July28thJamuna the Indian Elephant escapes her enclosureAtir Ali Jamuna’s Keeper is employed by Auckland City Council

AUCKLAND'S ELEPHANT JUMUNA HAS AN EVENING OUT AN ESCAPADE AT FREEMAN'S BAY. (BY TELEGRAPH. —SPECIAL TO THE POST.) AUCKLAND, This Day. An entertaining account of the idiosyncrasies of Auckland's new elephant, Jumuna, and her fondness for her Indian keeper, was given to the City Council on Thursday evening in a report submitted by Mr. L. T. Griffin. This was based upon an escapade of the animal. On a recent Sunday, at about 7 p.m., said Mr. Griffin, Jumuna broke out of her temporary stall at the council depot in Freeman s Bay, near the destructor. In the absence of Ater Ali, her keeper or mahout, she then proceeded to pull down the downpipes on various buildings, also sundry water taps. Afterwards she proceeded to the mahout's room, broke a bolt off the door, and ate all his flour, sugar, butter, milk, and everything else eatable there.

While she was busy at this the night shift men at the destructor blocked the passage-way with carts and wagons, thinking to limit her wanderings. However, as she came back she first tore a pipe and water tap off the side of the destructor house and broke

the window of the men's eating-room, and then calmly and with the greatest of care pushed all the wagons out of the passage, turning one over and damaging it. At this stage all the nightshift men at the destructor mounted to the top of the boilers and stopped there, pending the arrival of assistance.

Jumuna then proceeded to smack down the large double gates, and partly succeeded. Ater Ali returned at 10 p.m., and she settled down at once, and men on top of the boilers were released and returned to their duties.

Ater Ali seldom leaves the elephant," continued Mr. Griißn. "I must say he looks after her well from one week's end to the other, but he tells me that when he is there the elephant is very good, but when he goes away then she is very bad. He is dissatisfied with the stable she is in, and says he cannot be answerable for her in such a place. I have now ordered her to be chained fore and aft to the floor. The mahout is quite satisfied with this arrangement."

The incident showed fairly conclusively that Jumuna would be a handful, were her present keeper to leave Auckland. That contretemps was in some danger of happening.

It appears Ater Ali has been receiving £10 a month, but he recently notified the Parks Committee of the council that he could not accept that amount as a permanency. He wanted £4 10s a week, exclusive of quarters at the Zoo and a uniform. If this were not granted he requested that the council should arrange for his return to India. Mr. Griffin reported, however, that he had persuaded the mahout to take £14 a month, with, room and uniform. On the recommendation of the committee the council agreed to these terms, and to have the keeper at the Zoo instructed to assist with the elephant when she is taken there.

- Evening Post 28 July 1923

30th

Recommendations for the expenditure of the £20,000 loan, recently authorised for the Zoological Gardens improvements, were submitted by the Parks Committee

6 Polar Bears Ursus maritimus ordered – 2 males 4 females

Recommendations for the expenditure of the £20,000 loan, recently authorised for the Zoological Gardens improvements, were submitted by the Parks Committee to the Auckland City Council last week. It stated that if carried out the proposed works would place the Zoo in a first class condition, and make it highly attractive to visitors. The recommendations included : Tea kiosk £1500 ; tigers' arena, £1595; elephant walk, £280; elephant pool, £460; elephant house (permanent structure for two animals with full accommodation), £2000; monkey house, £720; flying aviary (collection gift birds), £1500- Polar bears, £400; Polar bear arena, £2000; bison paddock, £250; work at lions' and bears' arenas, £1000; purchase of monkeys and kangaroos, £100. The

recommendations were adopted. The Parks Committee reported that it had cabled for six Polar bears for the Zoo, four female and two male animals having been ordered.

- Evening Post 30 July 1923

August23rdShipment of animals including several polar bears (to be shipped at a later date) reported as coming from London via the Pakeha

FOR THE AUCKLAND ZOO NUMBER: OF ANIMALS SHIPPED. (UNITED PRESS ASSOCIATION.—COPYRIGHT.) (AUSTRALIAN - NEW ZEALAND CABLE ASSOCIATION.) LONDON, 28th August. Two monkeys, one fox, a number of badgers, civet-cats, Barbary sheep, ibex, and agoutis are being shipped by the Pakeha from London for the Auckland Zoological Gardens, Six young polar bears are also be shipped shortly.

- Evening Post 23 August 1923

OctoberDiscussion concerning Sir Ernest Shackleton’s dog not being housed properly at the zoo. The dog was removed from the zoo and cared for by the Zoo caretaker Mr Hurleyhttp://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/cgi-bin/paperspast?a=d&cl=search&d=EP19230418.2.72&srpos=47&e=-------100--1----0auckland+zoo--

23rd

Purchase of a black leopard Panther pardus announcedPurchase of 6 Polar Bears Ursus maritimus It was reported to the Auckland City Council on Thursday evening that the Parks Committee had purchased another black panther (Leopard) as a mate for the one already purchased for the Auckland Zoo. It was also stated that the committee had accepted the offer of a caretaker's, services for the sum of £50 to accompany a shipment of animals from England, provided that "the six Polar bears and two panthers were shipped by the same vessel. This action was endorsed (states the "New Zealand Herald"). Recently the council purchased a hippopotamus in Melbourne at a cost of £400.

- Evening Post 22 October 1923

27th



The arrival of Bella Auckland Zoo’s first Hippopotamus from Melbourne Zoo reported as due.

AUCKLAND'S "BABY HIPPO."

The Auckland Zoo is soon to have a "baby" hippotamus added to its rapidly increasing attractions, for last week the Parks Committee reported that one had been bought in Melbourne at £400 for early delivery. As a"baby” however, it is exceedingly well grown and weighty for its inches, being almost as big now as its mother, whose home is the Melbourne Zoo. Consequently something pretty substantial in the nature of a nursery will be necessary, as a playful young* hippo might quite by accident break something, or fall through a wall of any but the most solid proportions if she leant against it to scratch herself. To prepare suitable accommodation for this young lady, for it is understood the "baby" is of the gentler sex, the council decided to enlarge the creek from the Western Springs, surround it with a stone and iron fence, and put up suitable shelter for the animal, at an estimated cost of £850. It seems that the new exhibit is something of a favourite at the Melbourne Zoo, and is known to the officials and the public as the "Baby Hippo," not yet having been given any other name. She had an elder sister, or rather still has, but the family is a wandering one, and the sister went to the Sydney Zoo, the authorities of which paid the sum of £500 for the privilege of entertaining her. So it may be taken that Auckland has secured a "snip" in getting the "baby" for £400. Hippotami thrive well in captivity, and though their upkeep is costly—their favourite diet being fresh hay—they are always such an attraction to visitors that it pays to acquire them.

- Hawera & Nomandy Star 27 October 1923

November

28th

Jamuna accidently bites the end of her keeper’s finger off

Jamuna, Auckland's baby elephant on Thursday added another chapter to her many “pranks" this time biting off the top of the fourth finger of the right hand of her mahout, Ali Jamuna, having finished joy-riding for the afternoon at the Zoo (states "The Post Auckland correspondent), was picking up a peanut, gave it to his charge. She opened her mouth closed it on poor Ali's hand as well as the peanut, so that when Ali withdrew it the finger-top was gone. The injury however, is not serious, Ali being able to attend to his duties as usual.

- Evening Post 28 November 1923

December8th A number of valuable exhibits for the Auckland Zoo are aboard the Marama, which will arrive at Auckland from Sydney next Tuesday. These will include the hippopotamus, an additional tiger, and the large collection of coloured Australian birds, as well as sundry smaller items.

- Evening Post 8 December 1923

Tiger cub killed by resident Tigress ‘Molly’http://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/cgi-bin/paperspast?a=d&cl=search&d=EP19231215.2.101&srpos=21&e=-------100--1----0auckland+zoo--

1924MarchReport on the ‘new zoos’ profitability as being favourable


AprilA large consignment of 300 animals from South Africa arriveshttp://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/cgi-bin/paperspast?a=d&cl=search&d=EP19240401.2.50&srpos=13&e=-------100--1----0auckland+zoo--

JulyZoo animals are poisoned by arsenic or other corrosive poisonhttp://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/cgi-bin/paperspast?a=d&cl=search&d=EP19240724.2.92&srpos=84&e=-------100--1----0auckland+zoo--

December

18th

WILD ANIMALS

FOR THE AUCKLAND ZOO VALUABLE ADDITIONS. (FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT.) LONDON,5th November. By the Tekoa, which sails on 27th November, quite a large family of wild animals from all parts of the world will be going out to the Auckland Zoological Gardens. Messrs. Downie Brothers the council s agents in London, have had the matter in hand for some time and the well-known wild animal agent, Mr. G. Bruce Chapman, has had his world-wide organisation in action to collect and concentrate the beasts at his depot at High Barnett. Twelve of these are now ready for shipment and six others will follow in December or January

There are four polar bears—one male and three females. These arrived in August, having been brought from Norway. They are half-grown animals and were caught by whalers in the northern seas. Polar bear hunting seems to be an auxiliary trade earned by most whaling parties in the Arctic.









A pair of chimpanzees were caught in. West Africa and shipped from Dakar six weeks ago. Then there are a pair of Bengal tigers. These are now full grown, but they were trapped when they were young, and have been in the firm's depot at Bombay for some time. They are said to be very fine specimens.

A pair of pumas have come from South America. The firm's hunter caught them at Floresta, about 500 miles from Pernambuco, Brazil. Although these animals are carnivorous, they are able to be tamed, and the hunter who brought them over treats them as though they were large cats and strokes them and handles them. They stand about two feet high at the shoulder.

The Auckland Zoological Gardens are particularly fortunate in being able to secure a pair of giant ant-eaters. They are very difficult to get, and except for the pair in question, Mr. Bruce Chapman believes these are the only ones in Europe. At present they are on loan to the London Zoological Gardens. This pair were caught beside the River Amazon, and are considered to be as fine specimens as have ever been brought into captivity. They are 6ft 6in from tip of nose to tip of tail, end stand about 2it 6in high.

A PAIR OF RHINOCEROSES.

These are the animals which will go out by the Tekoa. Later on there will follow a pair of rhinoceroses, which have been caught in East Africa. As they are very valuable animals the chief agent is keeping them to bring home to England himself rather than allow them to be brought by a junior officer of the company.

The capture of rhinoceroses is generally undertaken by native chiefs who are in touch with the agents. The beasts are trapped when they are young, and it takes an army of natives to bring them into captivity. An Indian rhinoceros costs £4000, but the African species is very much, cheaper.

A pair of cheetahs is also due from East Africa and a pair of orang-outangs from Borneo. The Tekoa shipment will go out in charge of one of the company's experts. For the polar bears nearly a ton of fish will have to be taken. In addition any kind of frozen meat will be fed to them.

The giant ant-eaters will eat twelve eggs each day, meat chopped up small, and dried ant eggs. These ant eggs cost 3s a pound, and come from Sweden. It is not absolutely necessary for the anteaters to be fed on ants eggs, but during a journey they will naturally have the best food.

Each chimpanzee will eat six bananas a day, and a quantity of boiled rice, tinned milk. and Benger's fond. The tigess will live on meat and water, and the pumas, too, are meat eaters. When the rhinoceroses go out they will have a good supply of bay, straw, and corn.


1925

MayCriticism of the Zoo’s Financial Managementhttp://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/cgi-bin/paperspast?a=d&cl=search&d=EP19250521.2.11&srpos=39&e=-------100--1----0auckland+zoo--

July

18th

Thomas Arthur accuses Auckland Zoo of wrongful charges concerning the poisoning of animals in 1924.

ALLEGED WRONGFUL ARREST Petitioner's Charges Accused of Zoo Outrage, then Released.

One day last year Thomas William Arthur, a zoologist, who had some time previously applied for and been denied a position at the Auckland Zoo, was on board the steamer Remuera at Wellington — it was the same trip as that on which the All Blacks journeyed Horne — when he was visited by detectives and was requested to pay a visit to the Police Station.

His allegations as to what subsequently happened, and a narration of the circumstances which he says led up to his arrest, detention and alleged rough treatment, are contained m a petition praying for investigation and compensation, which was presented to the House of Representatives by Mr. W. J. Jordan, M.P. Condensed, petitioner's tale is: That he came to Auckland m October, 1922, to seek employment at the Zoo taken over by the City Council from Mr. Boyd. He interviewed the Mayor (Mr. now Sir, James Gunson), the town clerk, councillors and zoo superintendent, and was given to understand that he would be given a position to look after wild animals. However, in March, 1923, he saw the chairman of the zoo committee, and, on being told there was no prospect of his employment, he gave up the quest. He attended the opening of the zoo in December, 1922, and since that time neither he nor his family had ever been near the zoo. Proceeding, Arthur m his petition goes on to say that in June, 1924, he received word that it was necessary for him to go to England in connection with an estate In Chancery, and a little later, when on a lecturing tour m the Hamilton district, he was informed of a position being open for him on the steamer Remuera. He went to Wellington, after a hurried trip to Auckland, and signed articles on the Remuera. On July 29 he was on the saloon deck of the steamer when he was called to the chief officer's cabin and there met a detective, who asked him to go with him to the police station. On the wharf another detective approached and said: "You're pretty smart, aren't you? Thought you could hide and get out of the country. Tou are a prisoner now and will be for the next five years at Mount Eden. How quietly you got out of Auckland, eh?" Petitioner states that at the police station he truthfully answered questions, yet one detective called him a — liar and asked him where he had got the arsenic with which to "poison the zebra," and made other similar accusations for the space of an hour, m which the name of "Jimmy Gunson" (referring to the Mayor of Auckland) was freely used. Petitioner said he asked to be confronted wit.h Sir James Gunson, whom he had passed m the street the previous evening, and who, he was sure, had seen him also, but he was told by the detective (who shook his fist under his nose and told him he would like to knock him through the wall, and that he ought to be poisoned, as he had poisoned the



poor monkeys at Auckland Zoo), that Sir James knew where he was and would not see him, and that he (Sir James) gave Arthur a very black It had been reported that Sir James Gunson had told a reporter that "nothing has been left undone to bring the perpetrator (of the animal-poisoning) to justice, and, while no actual arrest had been made a pretty close idea had been arrived at as to the identity of the individual responsible." These remarks had been published in a newspaper. Petitioner read the reportinm January this year after his return from England (he had been permitted by the detectives to go on board the Remuera again after his detention) and he wrote to the Mayor asking him to take steps to clear his reputation, either by letter or inquiry, but he received a reply to the effect that the police acted entirely on their own initiative and that he could do nothing m the matter. Petitioner contended that Sir James Gunson should be called upon to state to whom he did refer in the remarks published, and also to say oh what grounds he made the statement. Petitioner declares that from July 14 to July, 24, 1924, he was engaged delivering lectures on Lord Nelson at Hamilton, Frankton, and Te Awamutu under the auspices of the V.M.C.A., and that it was some time during the above period that the poisoning of the animals took place, which facts petitioner says he is prepared to prove.

In conclusion, Arthur states that his business as one who takes care of wild animals is an uncommon one, m which comparatively few persons m the world are engaged, and that the effect of the public statement of the Mayor, until the prominence of petitioner's arrest from the vessel on which the All Blacks were travelling and on which were many prominent people, were such as to practically ruin petitioner's reputation. Therefore he claimed compensation for wrongful arrest, rough treatment, and loss of reputation.

- NZ Truth 18 July 1925

NZ Truth criticises Auckland Zoo over death of a newly imported Giraffehttp://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/cgi-bin/paperspast?a=d&cl=search&d=NZTR19250718.2.17&srpos=107&e=-------100--101----0auckland+zoo--

August 22nd

Arrival of Chaka Male hippopotamus as a mate for Bella the female None the worse after his long sea voyage, the male hippopotamus which was recently purchased in India for Auckland Zoological Park arrived at the Northern city by the steamer Kent. When the vessel berthed, he was taken, by lorry to his new home. The hippopotamus, which was born of captive parents In Calcutta Zoo, is now five years old. He was acquired in India as a mate for the female of the species which has been at the local Zoo for some months. From Calcutta he was shipped to London, where he underwent a special examination at the hands of a professor of the London Zoological Society. The results of the examination were highly satisfactory, and the hippopotamus was then taken to Liverpool, where he was shipped on the Kent. His cage, which was specially constructed for the purpose, was secured at the after end of the bridge deck. The feeding of the hippopotamus throughout the trip was carried out by the ship's butcher. Last week the Kent encountered a series of moderate gales, and wm severely buffeted. Quantities of water were shipped on deck, but the

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hippopotamus was little worried. He crawled beneath his bed of straw and slept for comfort until the weather moderated.

- Evening Post 22 August 1925

SeptemberFemale Asiatic Leopard escapes from her enclosure


OctoberEscaped Female Asiatic Leopard found drowned and floating in the water at Lady Bay near St Heliers 11 Octoberhttp://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/cgi-bin/paperspast?a=d&cl=search&d=EP19251012.2.25&srpos=138&e=-------100--101----0auckland+zoo--

1926SeptemberAnnouncement of the birth of a Hippopotamus calf to Chaka (Charka?) and Bella

YOUNG HIPPOPOTAMUS BORN AT AUCKLAND ZOO. (By Telegraph.) (Special to /'The Evening Post") AUCKLAND, This Day. "Chaka.—On 27th September, in the big pond, to Mr. and Mrs. Chaka (nee Bella), a son. Both doing well, and everybody as pleased as' Punch." But, of course, they don't go to the trouble of putting in a birth notice when these little events happen at the Zoo. Visitors will recognise the names of the two big "hippos," which are such a source of interest. The happy .event occurred some time last night, and apparently in the water, but, no one knows exactly when. All that is definitely known is that this morning there was a fine healthy youngster basking in the sun on the mud. The young hippopotamus will be a most attractive exhibit at the Zoo, as it will be unique not only for Auckland but for the Dominion, and naturally the authorities will watch its progress with quite as much anxiety as Sir Truby King shows at Karitane.


29th

Death of baby hippopotamus – killed by Chaka

Not Long for This World.





The birth of the baby hippopotamus at the Auckland Zoo, announced with jubilation yesterday, is followed by a gloomy death notice to-day. The pride of the Zoo was slain by its father.


Announcement of further purchases of animals for Auckland Zoo from Londonhttp://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/cgi-bin/paperspast?a=d&cl=search&d=EP19260908.2.46&srpos=127&e=-------100--101----0auckland+zoo--

OctoberNZ Truth criticises Auckland Zoo Management over the death of a hippopotamus calf that was killed by Chaka the male

BABY HIPPO'S TRAGIC FATE

Strange Ignorance of Zoo Officials (From "N.Z. Truth's" Special Auckland Representative.)

Apologists for the management of the Auckland Zoo are never weary of falling back on the old story of ill-luck. On the other hand, it might be said that the City Council’s zoological venture is run solely on the lines of luck. Bad luck where large sums of ratepayers' money is involved would seem to be a poor alternative to forethought and zoological proficiency. For the umpteenth time of Truth asking the Auckland Municipal Zoo management have been found wanting in anticipative perception. With great acclamations the fact was announced that Madame Hippo had given birth to a hippotamette and that mother and child were doing well.

But within 24 hours the city was irritated by the tidings that a jealous Mr. Hippo had passed his youngster into the happy Valhalla where hippos hip beyond iron bars. Another case, of ill-luck, it was termed; that ill-luck which has made the ratepayers of the Queen City wonder by what reasoning so-called curators are paid handsome honorariums from their money while knowing so little, of wild animals.

"It is a most unusual thing for a hippo to savage its young," is the comment reported to have been made by the curator of the Auckland Zoo.

Married women, men who have termed themselves ignorant bumpkins, and even young students of zoology, and fanners have expressed their wonderment that those, -responsible for the Zoo should be so crassly -ignorant not to have made provision for the arrival of the expected baby hippo and have taken every precaution to preserve so valuable an attraction to the collection.

PUBLIC INDIGNATION



It does not take, as "N.Z. Truth" has learnt this week, costly and reputedly intelligent specialists to be aware that the male parent of many wild beasts born in captivity or under artificial conditions must of necessity be separated from their mate and offering.

An extremely indignant farm-hand took the trouble shortly after the death of the baby hippo was announced to call at "N.Z. Truth's" Auckland office to express his indignation at the gross ignorance which -.had been displayed m this instance at Auckland's municipal zoo.

As he said: "Any farmer or farmhand knows only too well that the male animal will knock the newborn about, even m the case of sheep, cattle or pigs; while .boars will frequently eat their young if an opportunity occurs."

To quote a paragraph from the London "Sunday Pictorial" of recent date:

"Both mother and baby are: doing well," said a Zoo official in reply to an inquiry after the new baby born there.

"This infantile monster, already 3ft. long, is a hippopotamus which is not only its mother's joy, but the zoo's pride, and no wonder, since it is well over half a century since a hippo was born there. It is a most unusual thing for them to breed m captivity," the official stated.

"The last time such an interesting event took place was in 1872. Then the baby was christened Guy Fawkes and lived to the age of thirty-six. Most of them live to forty or fifty in captivity.” “The new baby is being very closely guarded in fact the keeper is the only man in the Zoo who has seen it. Even 'daddy' has not been taken in yet"

The Auckland City Council have spent public money very lavishly on the Zoo and it can be looked upon as an investment which, may pay a good interest on capital .expenditure with wise administration, but so far the council have very little about which to boast.

There is a great deal to be desired m the actual controlling of supervising officers. It is time that, some fully qualified curator was engaged; a man with the best credentials, who would give his whole time to the job. The Zoo returns warrant it. Secretaryship to a collection of inanimate objects or a knowledge of taxidermy can hardly be qualifications for zoology.

Results would seem to bear out this contention “N.Z. Truth" feels constrained to ask what precautions were taken for the protection of the dead baby hippo or for its preservation.

BAD LUCK BLAMED

Will the Mayor of Auckland deny that unbelievable negligence was displayed and if he does will he explain how it came about that the baby hippo was washed down the creek , through the bars at the north ends of the enclosure, and that it was not till later that the precaution was taken of putting wire-netting across the stream?. Ill-luck has ever been the excuse of incompetence and the animal-lovers of Auckland are becoming tired of its reiteration in connection with the zoo.

There is no ill-luck about it; it is either ignorance or crass stupidity on the part of those who are paid to know their job. It only adds to the irritation felt when the "authorities" coolly talk of taking precautions when the next baby hippo is born — "probably next spring." They surely take a terrible lot for granted, more particularly m the light of the remark of the official of the London Zoo: "It is a most unusual thing for them to breed m captivity." Such a statement to the local press borders on "eye-wash." The ratepayers do not like to be handed out such unconvincing dope.

- NZ Truth 14 October 1926

NovemberConsignment of animals arrives from Montreal Canadahttp://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/cgi-bin/paperspast?a=d&cl=search&d=EP19261113.2.27&srpos=26&e=-------100--1----0auckland+zoo--

1927

September

10th

Auckland's Hippopotami.

An interesting domestic event is expected shortly at the Auckland Zoo, as the birth of a young hippopotamus is being awaited (says the "Star"). As a precaution, Mr. Hippo has boon put in a separate enclosure, this being deemed necessary on account of his unseemly behaviour last ye»r, when he savaged his offspring, with fatal results. The Zoo officials state that it is very difficult to rear a baby hippo, and it is now known that the latter has to be protected until it is able to fend for itself.


1929January

12th



Hippopotamus Calf born to Bella and Chaka. Chaka was removed from the enclosure by Zoo staff to prevent death or injury to the calf. Chaka had killed the first calf in 1926

EIGHT STONE BABY BIRTH AT AUCKLAND ZOO (By Telegraph.) (Special to "The Evening Post") AUCKLAND, This Day.

An eight-stone baby (possibly a boy) now noses around the huge bulkof Bella, the female hippopotamus at Auckland. Chaka, the father, who murdered the first one day old infant in September, 1926, has during the past three months been discreetly- withdrawn to another pond, but the iron grating did not prevent him taking a note of what went on in his old home this morning. “Does ho know what happened, in the next pond?” the curator was asked.

Ho replied. "Well, I rather think that he does. He has been very restless all the morning."

Only one baby hippo has been born in the London Zoo during the last fifty years.

- Evening Post 12 January 1929

April9thWallabies and Kangaroos arrive 9 April on board the Manukahttp://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/cgi-bin/paperspast?a=d&cl=search&d=EP19290409.2.92&srpos=2&e=-------10--1----0auckland+zoo--

November

3rd

Third Hippopotamus calf born to Chaka and Bella – died at 5 hours old after the mother abandoned it.

A Mother's Negligence.

A hippopotamus was born at the Auckland Zoo yesterday, but died five hours after birth owing to neglect by the mother. The callous behaviour of the mother is puzzling the Zoo authorities. She refused to go near the youngster. This is the third baby hippopotamus to be born at the Auckland Zoo. The first was killed by its father, and the second is now two years old, a splendid specimen of young male hippopotamus. The Zoo authorities are extremely disappointed at the new arrival's death, as these animals, are worth £400 when fully grown, and an inquiry had been received from an Australian Zoo as to the possibility of purchasing a hippopotamus.




An eland Calf is born at the zoohttp://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/cgi-bin/paperspast?a=d&cl=search&d=EP19291101.2.143&srpos=10&e=-------10--1----0auckland+zoo--

1930AprilJaguars arrive at the Auckland Zoohttp://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/cgi-bin/paperspast?a=d&cl=search&d=EP19300412.2.25&srpos=12&e=-------100--1----0auckland+zoo--

A young Australian Sea Lion named ‘Angel’ dies after only 26 days at Auckland Zoohttp://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/cgi-bin/paperspast?a=d&cl=search&d=EP19360409.2.133.2&srpos=90&e=-------100--1----0auckland+zoo--

NovemberArrival of ‘Jumbo’ the Indian Elephant from Beaumaris Zoo Hobart on the Ulimara


1932

Baby Hippo Born As Auckland Clocks Strike MidnightAuckland, January 1.The Auckland Zoo received an acceptable New Year gift in the form of a hippopotamus, which was born as the clocks were chiming in the NewYear.

- The Advertiser 2 January 1932

1934January6th

“Zulu” the second hippopotamus calf of Chaka and Bella sent of the ‘Monowai’ to Adelaide Zoo

Also sent to Adelaide Zoo on the ‘Monowai’2 Pairs of Paradise Shell Ducks1 Pair of Egyptian Geese1 Pair of Keas

SEA TRIP FOR HIPPOPOTAMUS



http://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/cgi-bin/paperspast?a=d&cl=search&d=EP19360409.2.133.2&srpos=90&e=-------100--1----0auckland+zoo--

http://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/cgi-bin/paperspast?a=d&cl=search&d=EP19360409.2.133.2&srpos=90&e=-------100--1----0auckland+zoo--





Auckland's strangest recent export, a two year old male hippopotamus, was shipped, by the Monowai recently, bound for the Adelaide Zoo. The animal had as chaperon Mr. Minchin, son of the curator of the Adelaide Zoo, who came to Auckland specially to take delivery of his cumbrous charge from the Auckland City Council, states the "New Zealand Herald."

"Zulu," as the young hippopotamus was known at the Auckland Zoo, where he was born, gave every indication of being a model passenger. The boxing and bedding of such a bulky creature for a sea voyage presented the Auckland Zoo authorities with a novel task, but, largely due to the docile conduct of the animal, the problem was satisfactorily solved.

The price at which "Zulu" changed hands has not been disclosed, but is stated to be "quite satisfactory." The Adelaide Zoo authorities were very keen to make the purchase, the funds for which were voluntarily subscribed by enthusiasts in that city.

Also travelling by the Monowai to the same ultimate destination were two pairs of paradise ducks, one pair of Egyptian geese, and one pair of keas. They were accommodated in wooden cages, fitted with wire-netting. It is hoped to secure further exhibits for the Auckland Zoo in exchange for these birds.

Another Auckland Zoo exhibit shortly to leave for Adelaide is the female Polar bear. A crate even larger than the one constructed for the hippopotamus will be required for the leave, which will probably sail toward the end of this month. The Auckland Zoo's collection of Polar bears will then be restricted to three males.

- 6 January 1934

NovemberTransfer of Female Polar Bear to Adelaide Zoo announced for the end of the month


1935November

9th

5th Hippopotamus Calf born to ‘Bella’ and ‘Chaka’ announced

BABY HIPPOPOTAMUS BIRTH AT AUCKLAND ZOO



(By Telegraph—Press Association.) AUCKLAND, This Day. A baby hippopotamus was born at the Auckland Zoo early this morning. It is the fifth offspring of Bella and Chaka during the last seven years, all the four previous births were males, two of which were sold to the Perth and Adelaide Zoos respectively. It is hoped that this one is a female, as it will command a higher price than the others have done. There is always keen public interest in these events.


1936March11th Reported That Rajah the male elephant was shot then butchered for the Lions. The hide was removed by C Dover of the Auckland War Memorial Museum and bones taken for future Taxidermy


1937February6th Hippopotamus calf born to Chaka and Bellahttp://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/cgi-bin/paperspast?a=d&cl=search&d=EP19370211.2.20&srpos=155&e=-------100--101----0auckland+zoo--

SeptemberGiant Tortoise dies at the zoohttp://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/cgi-bin/paperspast?a=d&cl=search&d=EP19370918.2.144&srpos=120&e=-------100--101----0auckland+zoo--

October

14th

Death of Chaka the male hippopotamus from a tennis ball in the gut. Chaka died after 6 days of illness.

TENNIS BALL KILLS HIPPOPOTAMUS.Thrown Into Mouth.AUCKLAND ZOO'S LOSS.







AUCKLAND, Wednesday.Chaka, the Auckland Zoo's male hippopotamus, died today as a result of having swallowed a tennis ball, believed to have been thrown Into his mouth by a visitor about six days ago. Choke had been in agony since swallowing the ball, which was found in a post-mortem examination.

Chaka was bought in London for nearly £ 400. He was 17 years old.

- Sydney Morning Herald 14 October 1937

A Sea Leopard is captured on Karekare Beach and handed over to Auckland Zoohttp://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/cgi-bin/paperspast?a=d&cl=search&d=EP19271012.2.140&srpos=172&e=-------100--101----0auckland+zoo--

1938FebruaryKeeper W. Hawke is attacked by a 10 year old American Black Bear while cleaning out its enclosurehttp://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/cgi-bin/paperspast?a=d&cl=search&d=EP19380203.2.173&srpos=97&e=-------100--1----0auckland+zoo--

SeptemberLion Cubs born to Lioness Trixie and Lion Victor. Four in the litter one crushed by Trixie - 3 surviving. Noted this was the pair’s 7th

litter


1939March13th

New Female Hippopotamus ‘Nada’ arrives from Taronga Park Zoo SydneyArrival of Giant Tortoises from the SeychellesNew pair of Ostriches from Melbourne ZooChimpanzee sent back to Singapore in exchange for Orang-utanPlan for Capuchin Monkeys to be imported from Melbourne Zoo

AUCKLAND ZOO RECENT PURCHASES YOUNG HIPPOPOTAMUS







(Special to the "Evening Post.") AUCKLAND, This Day. Several important additions will be made to the stock at the Auckland Zoo during the next few weeks with the arrival from abroad of recently purchased exhibits. A young female hippopotamus bought at Taronga Park Zoo, Sydney, is expected by the Awatea tomorrow.

The new hippopotamus will be named Nada and will be mated with Dimazulu, the only male hippopotamus at the Auckland Zoo since the death of his father, Chaka, nearly two years ago. Nada is about two years old.

Notable arrivals from the Seychelles towards the end of the month will be a pair of giant tortoises. These should be of particular interest judging from the popularity of a reptile of the same species which died over a year ago and which is now a prominent exhibit at the Auckland War Memorial Museum.

After a lapse of many years ostriches will be again represented at the zoo with the early importation of a pair from the Melbourne Zoo. Two capuchin monkeys are to be brought from the same source.

One of two recently imported chimpanzees has been returned to Singapore in exchange for an orangoutang, which is expected in the spring. Orangoutangs have not previously been exhibited in Auckland.- Evening Post 13 March 1939

AugustYoung Sea Lion found in an exhausted state in the Kaipara River and sent to Auckland Zoo for treatment


1943

August14th

Ostrich dies of copper poisoning from visitors giving it coins

Ostrich Died Of Too Many PenniesAUCKLAND. — Auckland's veteran zoo ostrich has died of copper poisoning. In its crop were found 34 pennies. 11 halfpennies, four three pences, a five-cent piece.

Said zoo curator Sawyer: — 'The bird was brutally murdered. By giving coins to the ostrich, people condemned it to a wretched, lingering death.'

This is the third ostrich the zoo has lost through copper poisoning.



Some years ago. a £500 hippopotamus died while trying to swallow a tennis ball, which had been thrown into its mouth.

- The Mail 14 August 1943

SPECIES LIST

AVES

MAMMALIA

BOVIDAE

American Bison Bison bison bison

ELEPHANTIDAE

Indian elephant Elephas maximus indicus

HIPPOPOTAMIDAE

Hippopotamus Hippopotamus amphibius

CARNIVORA

FELIDAE

African Lion Panthera leoLeopard Panthera pardus

URSIDAEPolar Bear Ursus maritimus

Compiled and Researched by Liz Clark 2010 - 2011

auckland zoo timeline

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