Tourists from New Zealand, UK killed by elephant on African safari

Two tourists from New Zealand and the UK have been killed by an elephant while on a walking safari in Zambia.

Two tourists have been killed by an elephant while on a walking safari in Zambia.

The two women, from New Zealand and the UK, were named as Alison Jean Taylor, 67, and Easton Janet Taylor, 68.

Police said they were with a guided safari group in South Luangwa National Park when a female elephant that was with a calf attacked them on Thursday, local time.

The elephant was injured by gunshots fired at it in attempt to stop the attack.

The women had been staying at the Big Lagoon Camp and were walking to another camp.

“They were moving to other camps when the elephant charged from behind,” local police chief Robertson Mweemba told BBC, adding that they “both died on the spot”.

“We are really sorry that we have lost our visitors.”

South Luangwa National Park, Zambia. Picture: Google Maps

The walking group reportedly diverted when they spotted the elephant and calf but within a few minutes, the elephant charged at them at high speed, according to further details provided to the Zambia Daily Mail.

A guide shouted “elephant” but it was too late.

Alison had “a leg problem” and was caught first, Mr Mweemba told the publication.

NZ Herald reported the victims were sisters. A neighbour described Alison as an “amazing, amazing woman”.

The Republic of Zambia Ministry of Tourism confirmed authorities were looking into the tragic incident.

“Zambia’s national parks are globally renowned for offering exceptional and authentic wildlife experiences,” the ministry said in a statement to New Zealand’s 1News.

“However, we wish to remind all visitors that these experiences take place in wilderness settings where wildlife behaves unpredictably.

“Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of the deceased during this difficult time.”

Female elephants are highly protective of their calves. Picture: iStock

The New Zealand High Commission in Pretoria, South Africa said it was providing consular assistance, while the British Foreign Office confirmed it was supporting a victim’s family.

It was only last year that two American tourists were killed by elephants in two separate attacks in Zambia.

Juliana Gle Tourneau, 64 was killed while on a safari drive in Livingstone in June, and Gail Mattson, 79, was killed during a game drive in Kafue National Park in March.