Big Red: the world's largest cattle beast dies

Big Red, reputedly the world's biggest cattle beast, has died.

Big Red, who was saved on a trip to the meatworks eight years ago, weighed in at 2.8 tonnes and died during an operation, owners Ross and Janette Campbell said.

Big Red's weight had given him trouble with his hips and legs. The operation was on his feet.

It was a sad day at his home at the Owlcatraz tourist and educational park at Shannon, 33km southwest of Palmerston North.

"The team will miss him terribly as he's always been such a wonderful attraction and a real easy-to-love gentle giant," Mr Campbell said.

A planned memorial will include photographs, a video and other Big Red memorabilia.

"We've had huge numbers of visitors view Big Red over the years and we would love to hear from people who have photos and video footage of him."

Big Red was a south Devon steer standing nearly 2m tall at the shoulder.

He was bred at Rosewood Stud in Manawatu more than 14 years ago.

About eight years ago Mr Campbell was operating a trucking company and taking a load of stock to a freezing works.

Big Red was taller than the rest and Mr Campbell decided to buy him and take him home.

"He's had a really good life. He's been a real icon," Mrs Campbell said.

- NZPA