Financially Stricken New Zealand Wildlife Park Euthanises Two Lions, Fate of Remaining Five Unclear

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

The private wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a online announcement, the facility explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” commented the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial capital investment,” the director noted.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were worsening. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the operator stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have shown interest in acquiring the property and continuing to care for the lions. While the window is tight and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to explore this option and hold onto hope.”

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

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from members of the public, pleading for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed hope that the facility would review the decision to put them down.

The director noted that among the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered menacing and offensive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and decency as we manage this devastating circumstance.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the choice to put down the big cats rested with the owners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A deputy director stated that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done correctly,” the representative said. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and containment responsibilities.”

The sanctuary attained minor fame in the early part of the century when it was shown on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently ran into economic issues and employment issues, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the government agency instructed the establishment to shut down until the habitats were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.