Auckland Zoo euthanises last remaining seal

Friday 12 December 2025 · 3 outlets · 3 reports · updated Fri 12 Dec 2025, 4:16pm

In this story Auckland Zoo

Auckland Zoo has euthanised Ōrua, a 20-year-old subantarctic fur seal. The animal was rescued as a pup in 2006 and was the last seal held in any New Zealand zoo. The decision follows deteriorating health and habitat conditions.

How they headlined it

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1. RNZFri 12 Dec 2025, 10:47am

   NZ's last seal in zoo euthanised, leaves behind 'special legacy' (opens in new tab)

2. NZ HeraldFri 12 Dec 2025, 3:00pm

   Auckland Zoo farewells last fur seal, shuts marine habitat in the end of an era (opens in new tab)

3. 1NewsFri 12 Dec 2025, 4:16pm

   'Much loved' animals at Auckland, Hamilton zoos farewelled (opens in new tab)