Help keep Sam's passion alive

Samantha Kudeweh

Amid all the discussion about Samantha Kudeweh's death and the earlier near-miss, we can't forget why these magnificent creatures are housed in zoos and why she was passionate about their conservation.

Sumatran tigers are critically endangered with fewer than 400 left in the wild in Sumatra, according to World Wildlife Fund.

It is estimated there are similar numbers housed in zoos.

There are several threats to the tigers including loss of habitat, human encroachment, loss of suitable prey and poaching for tiger products used in traditional medicines.

Those who wish to support the family and work of Samantha Kudeweh can do so through two channels.

A family trust has been formed to support Samantha's husband, Richard, and their children, and donations can be made through a Give A Little Page - https://givealittle.co.nz/cause/kudewehfamilytrust/

To date, more than $27,000 has been donated.

Those who wish to support Samantha's passion for the conservation of the animal species can do so by donating to the Hamilton Zoo Conservation Fund.

Donation boxes are at Hamilton Zoo, or alternatively, donations by cheque to Hamilton Zoo/ c- Private Bag 3010, Hamilton 3243 (cheques should be made out to Hamilton Zoo Conservation Fund).