Kevin in the trailer ready to head off to Hamilton Zoo. Photo: Supplied
A curious and loving giraffe named Kevin is on a cross country road trip, travelling from Christchurch's Orana Park to his new home at Hamilton Zoo.
He is just over two-years-old and is 4.3 metres tall and has been on the road since Tuesday, even boarding the Bluebridge Ferry last night.
The drive is no easy feat, with staff having to meticulously plan the route, avoiding low tunnels and windy roads.
Orana Wildlife Park spokesperson Nathan Hawke told Morning Report Kevin is joining a "bachelor herd" in Hamilton with 22-year-old Masamba and two-year-old Jabali.
"Kevin's loving life but our crew are a little bit tired. He's been an absolute trooper," Hawke said.
Moving a giraffe is a "massive logistical exercise", Hawke said, which involves a lot of staff including animal care and vets.
Zoo staff had to meticulously plan the route, avoiding low tunnels and windy roads, and were also reliant on good weather and calm seas to travel.
Kevin is in a specialised trailer for him that he can see out the top of.
"He's enjoyed the scenic journey across New Zealand," Hawke said.
Orana Park keepers will be staying with Kevin over the next few days to help him settle into his new home.
Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.
