Struggling NZ Wildlife Park Euthanises Pair of Lions, Fate of Remaining Five Unclear

A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the fate of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online post, the establishment 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 “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are devastated,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable capital investment,” the operator explained.

In a subsequent update, the park announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator said.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and providing for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or compassionate alternative” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with comments from the community, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the course of action to end their lives.

The manager mentioned that among the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered menacing and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We understand that emotions are high, but we appeal for consideration and courtesy as we manage this heartbreaking predicament.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the choice to euthanise the big cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done properly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its animal welfare and security requirements.”

The park achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility repeatedly experienced financial trouble and employment issues, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the park to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.