Struggling NZ Wildlife Park Puts Down Two Lions, Fate of Remaining Five Uncertain

A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to put down two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a social media post, the establishment explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are heartbroken,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable financial backing,” the manager noted.

In a subsequent statement, the facility verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the manager remarked.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. Even though the timeframe is limited and the situation remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or ethical alternative” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with comments from members of the public, begging for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would rethink the decision to put them down.

The director stated that among the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered menacing and insulting comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We understand that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and decency as we manage this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the determination to put down the lions rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A deputy director stated that humane killing had to be conducted ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to ensure this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are confident that the facility continues to satisfy its animal welfare and enclosure responsibilities.”

The park attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park frequently experienced monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to cease operations until the facilities were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.