The gates of Auckland Zoo are closed on Tuesday following the death of Kashin, a 40-year-old elephant.
Kashin had chronic arthritis and foot abcesses and was euthanised on Monday after her health worsened.
Senior vet Richard Jakob-Hoff says Kashin was showing signs of being in pain, despite being on pain relief.
Dr Jakob-Hoff says it was clear her condition had deteriorated over the weekend when she became depressed and withdrawn.
Kashin's death could affect the zoo's remaining elephant, Burma, and staff will be monitoring her closely.
The zoo will re-open to the public on Wednesday.
