Financially Stricken NZ Wildlife Park Puts Down Pair of Lions, Future of Five More Uncertain

A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to put down two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media announcement, the establishment explained 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 euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are deeply saddened,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial monetary input,” the operator explained.

In a recent announcement, the facility confirmed 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 deteriorating. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the director remarked.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. While the window is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to pursue this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or ethical choice” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by comments from the community, begging for a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the park would rethink the plan to put them down.

The manager stated that among the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we appeal for kindness and courtesy as we manage this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the choice to humanely kill the lions lay with the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official commented that humane killing had to be conducted ethically, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson said. “We are assured that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and containment responsibilities.”

The sanctuary achieved minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary repeatedly experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the park to close until the facilities were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.