🔗 Share this article

A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to put down two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a social media post, the facility clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are heartbroken,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable capital investment,” the operator noted.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the manager said.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in buying the property and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is tight and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or compassionate option” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were filled with comments from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the course of action to put them down.

The manager mentioned that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received menacing and insulting messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We understand that emotions are high, but we request compassion and decency as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the determination to humanely kill the big cats lay with the owners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be onsite to confirm this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and containment responsibilities.”

The facility achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility frequently experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to close until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.