Family mourns New Zealander Alison Taylor after fatal elephant attack in Zambia

Alison Jean Taylor, 67, was killed by an elephant in South Luangwa National Park, Zambia. Photo / Facebook via RNZ

By Krystal Gibbens of RNZ

The family of the New Zealander killed by an elephant in Zambia have told RNZ they are thankful for the support they are receiving as they work to bring their loved one home.

Alison Jean Taylor, 67, from Porirua, was attacked by a female elephant on July 3 while walking on a safari in South Luangwa National Park, along with another woman from Britain.

Her brother Bill Taylor said the other woman who died was his sister’s longtime friend and second cousin Janice Taylor Easton, also known as Janet.

Bill Taylor said the family’s focus was currently on repatriating his sister and her belongings back to New Zealand.

He said they were thankful to the many people who were providing them with assistance during “this difficult process”.

He said Alison Taylor grew up in Southland and after attending the University of Otago, spent the majority of her working life in Wellington, where she lived.

Alison Taylor was the deputy chairwoman for Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) Porirua.

On Wednesday, CAB Porirua said Alison Taylor was “a valued and highly effective volunteer” and would be profoundly missed.

Porirua councillor Geoff Hayward also said Alison Taylor was a cheerful, compassionate and helpful person.

“I think of her as an inspiration that we can all do more and be more kind in this world,” Hayward said.

The two women were near Big Lagoon Bush Camp in South Luangwa National Park when the elephant, which was with its calf, charged at them.

Shots were fired at the elephant, wounding the animal and ultimately stopping the attack.

However, Eastern Province Police commanding officer Robertson Mweemba confirmed both women died at the scene.

Two others travelling with the group were uninjured.

A farewell is expected to be held for Alison Taylor on August 15 in Wellington.

The family were requesting privacy at this time.

– RNZ