Financially Stricken New Zealand Animal Sanctuary Puts Down Two Lions, Future of Remaining Five Uncertain

A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was forced to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media update, the establishment indicated 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 “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are heartbroken,” commented the park’s director.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial capital investment,” the director explained.

In a subsequent announcement, the park announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager stated.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the window is short and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to investigate this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or humane alternative” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from the community, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the plan to end their lives.

The director mentioned that alongside the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to menacing and abusive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we appeal for kindness and courtesy as we handle this devastating circumstance.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The government department stated that the decision to humanely kill the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be performed humanely, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done properly,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The facility attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The facility often encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the facility to close until the facilities were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.