🔗 Share this article

A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online update, the facility indicated that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are devastated,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial capital investment,” the manager explained.

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

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

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the property and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the deadline is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing all we can to investigate this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or humane option” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by messages from the community, pleading for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The director noted that among the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and offensive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we manage this devastating predicament.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body indicated that the determination to put down the cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A deputy director stated that humane killing had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the facility continues to meet its animal welfare and containment requirements.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary often experienced financial trouble and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the park to shut down until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.