Future of Natureland Zoo unclear

Natureland Zoo in Nelson may have to close if no one can be found to run it.

The Orana Wildlife Trust is pulling out of the park because of the impact of Canterbury earthquakes on its Christchurch operations.

The Nelson City Council has agreed to seek expressions of interest.

Council spokesman Roger Ball says if no one comes forward they'll have to consider other options.

"It'd be premature at this point because we've got a couple of indications from organisations out there that are showing some interest."

Mr Ball says the park attracts more than 30,000 people a year.

Mayor Aldo Miccio says the council's considering its options.

"At this stage it's trying to find somebody else to run it and then we'll have to make that tough call whether or not council wants to run it themselves and / or the possibility of closing Natureland."

Mr Miccio says it's about coming up with a business plan which gets more people to Natureland so it can be financially sustainable.