🔗 Share this article

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

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media update, the establishment explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are heartbroken,” said the park’s director.

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but significant financial backing,” the director added.

In a recent statement, the sanctuary announced 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 deteriorating. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the manager stated.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and continuing to care for the lions. While the deadline is short and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to explore this option and maintain optimism.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by comments from the community, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed optimism that the park would rethink the course of action to euthanise them.

The manager stated that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered threatening and offensive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we ask for consideration and decency as we manage this tragic predicament.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department clarified that the determination to euthanise the big cats rested with the owners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be carried out compassionately, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be onsite to ensure this is done properly,” the representative stated. “We are confident that the operation continues to meet its animal care and containment responsibilities.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park frequently experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the government agency instructed the park to cease operations until the habitats were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.