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

A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online post, the facility indicated 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 “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but significant monetary input,” the manager noted.

In a recent update, the facility announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the director stated.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in purchasing the property and maintaining care for the lions. While the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or humane alternative” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, pleading for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The operator stated that among the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and abusive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we appeal for consideration and respect as we navigate this devastating circumstance.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The government department clarified that the decision to humanely kill the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A deputy director stated that putting down had to be performed compassionately, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the representative said. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and security requirements.”

The sanctuary gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently encountered economic issues and employment issues, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency instructed the establishment to cease operations until the enclosures were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.