Hamilton Zoo curator Samantha Kudeweh was a passionate conservationist who could form instant, lasting connections with both animals and people.

Family, friends and well-wishers filled Hamilton Gardens Pavilion on Monday to celebrate and remember the mother-of-two who was killed by one of the zoo's Sumatran tigers on September 20.

More than 1000 people laughed and wept as loved ones, friends and workmates shared stories of a woman whose wit, warmth, and passion left an indelible mark on those around her.

Husband Richard Kudeweh said his wife loved their children, Billy, 9, and Sage, 3 and her death left an unimaginable hole in their lives.

The desire of people to keep Kudeweh's memory alive would help family cope with their loss, he said.

"When I see everyone here today I feel nothing but love."

Hamilton Mayor Julie Hardaker said Kudeweh's death had caused tremendous sadness but her legacy would live on at Hamilton Zoo.

Kudeweh was one of "Hamilton's shining lights" and helped the wider public better understand the natural world, Hardaker said.

"Hamilton has been so lucky to have Samantha," she said.

"The zoo is one of our city's treasures and Samantha will always be remembered."

Hamilton Zoo director Stephen Standley said Kudeweh was exceptionally talented and a fantastic leader.

He said many words could be used to describe Kudeweh.

"Leader, talented, trusted, competent, diligent, intelligent, reliable, credible, resilient and, of course, scruffy."

"Sam is part of Hamilton Zoo and Hamilton Zoo is part of her. It was her passion and it will be her legacy."

Laurie Pond mentored Kudeweh and described her as "the real deal" and a beautiful person.

"We're so, so grateful that she came into our lives," he said.

Family members and friends recalled Kudeweh's caring personality, musical talents, and her driving passion for animals and conservation.

The zoo was closed on Monday for Kudeweh's funeral service.

Meanwhile, a family trust has been formed to help support her family.

Members of the public and organisations wanting to make a donation can do so via a Give-a-little page.

Funds raised will go toward the education and well-being of Kudeweh's children.

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* Tiger that killed keeper will not be euthanised

* Petition to save tiger Oz's life after attack that killed keeper Samantha Kudeweh

Those wanting to support Kudeweh's passion for conservation can give donations to the Hamilton Zoo Conservation Fund.

Donations boxes are at Hamilton Zoo or cheques can be posted to the zoo's private bag address.

* givealittle.co.nz/cause/kudewehfamilytrust