04/06/2026
When it comes to looking after the biggest baby in town, it really does take a village! 🦒
Nia, our two- year-old Giraffe, has undergone a variety of tests over the past few months as our Veterinary and Animal Care teams work to investigate an ongoing respiratory issue.
After going through all the non-invasive options available, the decision was made to proceed with a full examination under general anaesthetic. Putting such a large animal under anaesthesia is always complex and carries significant risk, which is why all hands were on deck!
Following weeks of meticulous planning involving more than 50 dedicated staff and specialists, the teams successfully carried out lots of tests, including bloodwork, x-rays, an ultrasound, an endoscopy and an echocardiogram, with great care and precision.
The team found signs of mild chronic inflammation in Nia’s trachea and lungs. While this isn’t a specific diagnosis, we were able to rule out infectious diseases as well as several serious respiratory conditions and can confirm that Nia has a perfectly healthy heart! Post procedure, Nia is back to her usual vivacious self and continues to receive monitoring and expert care.
A huge thank you to everyone involved in this gargantuan task, including the Veterinary Team and Keepers who stayed overnight to monitor her closely, Massey University - Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa's Anaesthesia and Equine Veterinary Specialists, Zoo Hoofstock Trim Program trained Farrier Ben Bateman, and Veterinarian Rich Sim from , who all ensured Nia received the highest standard of care throughout her operation.
The amount of existing research on Giraffe coughs is minimal, which is why we are so grateful to our passionate and skilled staff and partners for their help with Nia’s case. Ngā mihi for your dedication and teamwork to help us make sure Nia is as happy and healthy as possible!
