Struggling New Zealand Wildlife Park Puts Down Two Lions, Fate of Five More Uncertain

A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a online update, the establishment 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 euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial capital investment,” the director noted.

In a subsequent update, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were declining. These choices were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the director said.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. While the window is limited and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable 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 concerned citizens, begging for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed desire that the sanctuary would review the decision to euthanise them.

The operator stated that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and offensive remarks.

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

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to put down the big cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be performed 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 satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and containment obligations.”

The facility gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility repeatedly ran into financial trouble and employment issues, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.