Wellington Zoo euthanises chimpanzee after fight within troop

Wednesday 26 August 2026 · 3 outlets · 3 reports · updated Wed 26 Aug, 1:14pm

An 11-year-old chimpanzee named Kitwe was euthanised at Wellington Zoo following critical injuries sustained during a fight with his troop. The zoo stated that aggression is a natural behaviour among chimpanzees. Staff will continue to monitor the remaining members of the troop.

How they headlined it

12:50pm

1. 1NewsWed 26 Aug, 12:50pm

   'Sweet-natured' chimp euthanised at Wellington Zoo after fight (opens in new tab)

2. NZ HeraldWed 26 Aug, 1:05pm

   Wellington Zoo euthanises chimpanzee Kitwe after fight with troop (opens in new tab)

3. StuffWed 26 Aug, 1:14pm

   Wellington Zoo mourns ‘sweet natured’ Chimpanzee named by Dr Jane Goodall (opens in new tab)