🔗 Share this article

A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable monetary input,” the operator added.

In a subsequent update, the park verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were declining. These choices were made with deep care and consideration,” the director remarked.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be put down.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the deadline is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to investigate this possibility and keep hope alive.”

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

The park’s announcements were filled with responses from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to put them down.

The operator mentioned that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and abusive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and decency as we handle this tragic situation.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to put down the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer stated that putting down had to be carried out ethically, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to verify this is done correctly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and containment requirements.”

The facility achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility often encountered economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.