Financially Stricken New Zealand Wildlife Park Puts Down Pair of Lions, Fate of Five More Unclear

A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to euthanise two of its older lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

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

In a online announcement, the facility explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant financial backing,” the operator added.

In a subsequent update, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the manager remarked.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the deadline is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to explore this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were filled with responses from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the sanctuary would review the course of action to put them down.

The manager noted that alongside the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to threatening and abusive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We understand that emotions are high, but we request compassion and courtesy as we handle this devastating situation.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the choice to humanely kill the big cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A deputy director explained that putting down had to be conducted humanely, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to confirm this is done properly,” the official said. “We are confident that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal welfare and security obligations.”

The park attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility repeatedly experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.