Troubled NZ Wildlife Park Puts Down Two Lions, Future of Remaining Five Uncertain

A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media announcement, the establishment explained that its owner 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 landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are heartbroken,” stated the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but significant monetary input,” the director explained.

In a later update, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were worsening. These choices were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator remarked.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A several interested parties have shown interest in buying the facility and providing for the lions. While the window is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were filled with responses from concerned citizens, pleading for a second chance for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the park would review the course of action to euthanise them.

The operator stated that amid the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we request consideration and respect as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The government department clarified that the decision to euthanise the lions was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer explained that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to meet its animal welfare and security requirements.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

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

The sanctuary frequently encountered financial trouble and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency instructed the facility to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.