Struggling NZ Wildlife Park Puts Down Two Lions, Fate of Five More Uncertain
A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the fate of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.
The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.
In a online announcement, the facility explained 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 staff and I are devastated,” said the park’s director.
“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant capital investment,” the manager added.
In a recent announcement, the facility 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 deteriorating. These decisions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the director remarked.
However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be euthanised.
“A handful of parties have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the window is tight and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to pursue this possibility and keep hope alive.”
Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or compassionate option” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.
The park’s announcements were filled with messages from members of the public, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the facility would review the decision to put them down.
The manager noted that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also encountered hostile and offensive comments.
“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and respect as we manage this devastating predicament.”
The landowner chose not to respond.
The government department indicated that the choice to euthanise the big cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the intention.
A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.
“An regulatory officer will be onsite to ensure this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and security requirements.”
The sanctuary achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.
However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.
The park frequently ran into financial trouble and employment issues, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to cease operations until the enclosures were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.
