Troubled New Zealand Wildlife Park Puts Down Pair of Lions, Future of Remaining Five Uncertain

A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to put down two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media announcement, the establishment indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant financial backing,” the director explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were worsening. These actions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the operator stated.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. While the deadline is limited and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this possibility and hold onto hope.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with responses from the community, begging for a second chance for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the course of action to euthanise them.

The director stated that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also encountered threatening and offensive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we ask for compassion and decency as we handle this heartbreaking predicament.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the determination to euthanise the big cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A senior official stated that putting down had to be carried out ethically, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to ensure this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are confident that the operation continues to meet its animal care and containment requirements.”

The facility achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park repeatedly encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency ordered the park to close until the habitats were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.