Hamilton Zoo has decided not to euthanise its Sumatran tiger, Oz, following the death of zookeeper Samantha Kudeweh.
Ms Kudeweh, 43, was working in the cat enclosure when she was attacked shortly after 11am on Sunday. She died at the scene.
Hamilton City Council general manager community Lance Vervoort says there is no ongoing risk with the tiger following the incident.
"We're aware there is a lot of interest and speculation around how we manage Oz now, and I want to assure the public and zoo supporters that he will not be put down.
"Although there is an inherent risk for zoo professionals who manage big cats like Oz, there is no wider ongoing risk. There is no reason for us to put Oz down."
Mr Vervoort says the decision not to euthanise the tiger was made by senior zoo staff today. The Ministry for Primary Industries has been notified.
A former big cat veterinarian says the death may have been due to mating season. At least one older female tiger was nearby at the time of the attack.
"We're in the middle of breeding season and this is the time of the year when cats are very territorial," says Auckland vet Brett Christian. "They're in a heightened state. I wonder what the breeding situation was at Hamilton.
"This was a male lion in an enclosure, with a female. He naturally would've been very defensive and protective of his territory – more so than at any other time of the year."
Mr Vervoort says Oz is a significant animal for his species.
"He is the father of our two cubs, and he is vital to the ongoing breeding programme to conserve this rare species."
Veterinarians and zoo staff believe Oz's attack on Ms Kudeweh was in line with his natural instincts.
After the attack, thousands had called for Oz's life to be spared, with more than 4500 people "liking" the Help Save Oz Facebook page.
The zoo will remain closed until Thursday. While the Sumatran tigers will be on display, no decision has been made on whether visitors will be able to see Oz.
The zoo's animal encounter sessions for all species have been temporarily suspended to allow zoo staff time to grieve. Mr Vervoort says they will be assessed on a weekly basis.
"We're firmly focused on supporting Samantha's family, the zoo team, and making sure we conduct thorough and complete investigations into this tragic incident.
"Our team is still coming to terms with what has happened, and the show of support from our community and the zoo industry worldwide has been very touching and hugely appreciated."
Ms Kudeweh's family has asked for privacy while arrangements are made for services.
Police are working with the zoo and WorkSafe NZ to investigate.
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