🔗 Share this article

A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to put down two of its older lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

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

In a online update, the establishment indicated 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 euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable monetary input,” the manager noted.

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 grave illnesses that were untreatable and were declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the director said.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in purchasing the establishment and providing for the lions. Although the window is tight and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or ethical choice” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from the community, requesting a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed hope that the facility would review the decision to put them down.

The director noted that among the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and insulting messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we request consideration and decency as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body clarified that the decision to euthanise the lions lay with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A deputy director commented that humane killing had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and enclosure obligations.”

The facility attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility frequently experienced financial trouble and employment issues, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the establishment to shut down until the facilities were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.