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

A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to put down two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a online post, the establishment explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

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

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but significant monetary input,” the manager noted.

In a later announcement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were worsening. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the operator remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in acquiring the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is limited and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or ethical choice” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by responses from concerned citizens, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The director noted that among the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered hostile and abusive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we navigate this heartbreaking situation.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the decision to humanely kill the lions was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done properly,” the official noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and security requirements.”

The park attained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it appeared on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary often encountered financial trouble and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency ordered the facility to shut down until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.