Wellington Zoo has identified five of its animals as being dangerous enough to be shot and killed in the event of their escape during a natural disaster.
Neighbours of the 11-hectare zoo in the suburb of Newtown have met zoo management since the Christchurch earthquake to discuss an emergency plan.
Chimpanzees are at the top of the list to be shot because of their incredible strength, followed by lions, tigers, African wild dogs and Malayan sun bears.
The zoo says shooting to kill is standard policy at many zoos, as maiming is unethical and tranquillizers can be ineffective.
Chief executive Karen Fifield says a zookeeper trained in shooting is on hand around the clock.
