Two female Hamilton Zoo staff who tried unsuccessfully to save the life of their fellow keeper have received bravery awards.
Monique Alexander and Sarah Jones were presented with District Commander's Commendations at a ceremony in Hamilton today for their role in trying to prevent the September tragedy.
Zookeeper Samantha Kudeweh, 43, was inside the enclosure of Sumatran tiger Oz, when she was mauled.
Samantha Kudeweh
Police top brass today described her co-workers actions as heroic.
"[Ms] Jones showed a core presence of mind in distracting the tiger with its favourite toy and led it into another enclosure, preventing further injuries to the public and fellow zoo staff," says District Commander Bruce Bird.
Ms Alexander tried to save her colleague's life with first aid in "difficult circumstances".
WorkSafe New Zealand is still investigating the circumstances surrounding the Zoo curator's death at the Council-run facility.
A coroner's inquest will also take place next year.
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