Financially Stricken New Zealand Wildlife Park Puts Down Two Lions, Future of Five More Unclear

A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media announcement, the establishment explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable monetary input,” the director added.

In a later statement, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were declining. These choices were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in buying the facility and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is limited and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or humane option” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the facility would review the plan to end their lives.

The operator stated that among the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to menacing and offensive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that passions are strong, but we ask for kindness and respect as we navigate this tragic predicament.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the choice to euthanise the cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be carried out humanely, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done properly,” the official stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment obligations.”

The park gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The facility frequently encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency ordered the facility to cease operations until the enclosures were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.