Struggling NZ Wildlife Park Euthanises Pair of Lions, Fate of Five More Uncertain

A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media post, the facility clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the 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 team and I are heartbroken,” commented the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable monetary input,” the manager explained.

In a recent update, the sanctuary 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 declining. These actions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the director stated.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be put down.

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in purchasing the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is limited and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this possibility and hold onto hope.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by messages from the community, requesting a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the park would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The operator noted that amid the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered menacing and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we ask for compassion and courtesy as we handle this tragic predicament.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the choice to euthanise the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official commented that putting down had to be carried out compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to ensure this is done properly,” the official said. “We are assured that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The sanctuary achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

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

The park repeatedly encountered financial trouble and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the establishment to close until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.