A Hamilton City Councillor wants large exotic animals gone from the zoo.

The call comes following the tragic death of keeper Samantha Kudeweh, who was mauled to death by a tiger last Sunday at the Hamilton Zoo.

Councillor Andrew King believes times have changed.

He said it is inhumane to keep animals in small enclosures and conditions they're not naturally familiar with.

"Keeping the exotic animals and the African animals and the big animals in small enclosures in cold countries so that people can come and have a look at them and watch them.. I don't believe that's humane. I don't believe that's healthy."

King said it's just the beginning of the talk, but it is something in time that they need to discuss further

Samantha Kudeweh held the title of zoo curator and had worked for the zoo for over 20 years.