Financially Stricken New Zealand Animal Sanctuary Euthanises Two Lions, Fate of Remaining Five Unclear

A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to put down two of its senior lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a social media update, 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 “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are deeply saddened,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but significant financial backing,” the operator added.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were declining. These actions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the manager stated.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Although the deadline is limited and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or humane alternative” due to their age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were filled with comments from members of the public, pleading for a second chance for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed desire that the park would rethink the course of action to end their lives.

The manager mentioned that amid the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we request consideration and respect as we manage this tragic situation.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the determination to put down the big cats rested with the owners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A deputy director stated that euthanasia had to be conducted ethically, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be onsite to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson said. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and security requirements.”

The facility achieved some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park frequently encountered economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the park to close until the habitats were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.