A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to put down two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.
The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.
In a social media announcement, the establishment explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”
“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” stated the park’s director.
“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable financial backing,” the director added.
In a later statement, the park verified 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 not treatable and were worsening. These choices were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the director said.
However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be put down.
“A handful of parties have expressed interest in buying the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the deadline is limited and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”
Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or ethical alternative” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.
The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by responses from the community, pleading for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would review the plan to end their lives.
The manager noted that alongside the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting messages.
“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request consideration and courtesy as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”
The property owner refused to comment.
The government department indicated that the decision to euthanise the big cats lay with the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.
A senior official explained that putting down had to be conducted humanely, and in line with wildlife regulations.
“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to verify this is done correctly,” the official stated. “We are assured that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and security responsibilities.”
The sanctuary achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.
However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while performing maintenance.
The park frequently experienced financial trouble and staffing problems, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency instructed the facility to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.
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