Financially Stricken New Zealand Wildlife Park Euthanises Two Lions, Future of Five More Uncertain

A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to put down two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a online post, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are devastated,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial monetary input,” the manager explained.

In a later announcement, the park verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the manager stated.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in buying the property and maintaining care for the lions. While the window is tight and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or ethical alternative” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, pleading for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the park would review the course of action to end their lives.

The operator noted that alongside the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to hostile and abusive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We understand that passions are strong, but we appeal for compassion and decency as we navigate this heartbreaking predicament.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the choice to put down the big cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A deputy director stated that putting down had to be conducted humanely, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done properly,” the official noted. “We are assured that the operation continues to meet its animal care and security requirements.”

The sanctuary gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility repeatedly experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the facility to close until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.