28 July 2019 (Stuff.co.nz) "It's the eye of the tiger, it's the thrill of the fight," cries the soundtrack in the inspirational moments of films, but now more than ever the tigers themselves need someone fighting for them.

Hamilton Zoo acknowledged their wild cats on Sunday, a day ahead of World tiger day, an occasion aimed at promoting protecting the species' natural habitat and raising awareness around tiger conservation issues.

There are 400 to 500 Sumatran tigers left in the wild, putting them in the critically endangered category as their habitat is destroyed for palm oil plantation and the tigers suffer from the illegal pet trade. 

For Hamilton Zoo's Aaron Gilmour the day is to recognise the conservation efforts throughout Australasia but also educate people about how to help in their day to day lives.. 

"The zoo is a great place to come and see the tigers and learn about them. But also when you are out shopping just being aware of the products you buy that are palm oil-free so just little things like that you can do to help them," Gilmour said.

The zoo currently has four Sumatran tigers - Oz, the only male, and Mencari who is now 19 years old, Sali and her daughter Kirana.

"We've bred here before we've had two cubs - they are four years old, Kirana is still here and the young male Kembali has moved onto Adelaide Zoo to be part of the breeding programme over there. 

"So hopefully he can do his little bit for saving the species as well."