Outrage has erupted after a reindeer enclosure popped up as part of a Christmas display at a shopping centre in NSW.
The festive animals were part of the Reindeer Cheer experience at Jesmond Central shopping mall in Newcastle on Tuesday and Wednesday.
“Step into the magic of Christmas and meet Santa’s real-life Reindeer crew for FREE!” the shopping centre wrote on its website.
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“This magical experience is perfect for anyone looking to add a little spark to their Christmas season!”
Photos posted to social media show the reindeer in a pen, wearing Christmas-style harnesses and fuzzy coverings over their noses.
Jesmond Central’s Reindeer Cheer page promoting the experience Credit: Jesmond Central
The mall’s social media post about the activity said: “If your kids have ever asked to meet a real-life reindeer, you don’t need to book flights to the North Pole. Just pop in tomorrow, Santa’s gorgeous reindeer are visiting!”
The reindeer display ran for two days this week and was due to return for three days in December, but was cancelled due to negative feedback.
While some visitors welcomed the chance to see real reindeer, others expressed concern, describing the display as “cruel”.
“I had to pay an unfortunate visit to Jesmond shopping centre today, and I was so heartbroken to see these poor reindeer in an 8×6 pen in the middle of the shopping centre,” one customer wrote on social media.
“No food, no water, and NO SUPERVISOR?!? They are literally being used as a photo prop so people can get photos with them in their f***** Christmas outfits.”
“Isn’t Santa from the North Pole & not an Australian summer? Shame on center management for not logical thinking,” another commented.
“This is cruel! They do not deserve to be in a shopping centre and have people constantly in their face! Poor things,” wrote a third.
The activity was due to return in December but was later cancelled. Credit: Instagram
Jesmond Central told 7NEWS.com.au on Thursday that the reindeer were provided by a family-run business who were licensed and accredited, covering feeding, housing, veterinary care, inspections and overall welfare.
The centre said it had reviewed concerns and would take “appropriate action in collaboration with the relevant authorities” if needed.
It confirmed the activity will not return in December.
“We understand some people may feel differently even when activities meet legal and welfare standards, and we respect those views,” a spokesperson said.
“While the display complied with all required checks and welfare standards, after hearing the feedback from our community, the reindeer will not be returning.
“This choice reflects our commitment to creating experiences that everyone can feel good about, while continuing to meet the highest standards.”
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