Rotorua Agrodome's general manager says people who shot four prized sheep recklessly endangered the public, as well as killing much-loved animals.
Three sheep died and one survived after suspected meat thieves shot them earlier on 12 January.
The dead sheep included personal pets and trained performers which entertain tourists at the centre.
Agrodome general manager Grant Kilby says he is appalled.
"The tragedy really is that the perpetrator shot some champion rams that were part of the stage show.
"But equally, the vicinity of where the rams were shot was within 200 metres of State Highway 5 - so that could've actually involved members of the public being shot as well."
Mr Kilby says a white Mazda Familia was seen in the vicinity at the time of the shootings.
