Struggling NZ Wildlife Park Puts Down Pair of Lions, Future of Remaining Five Uncertain

A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a online announcement, the facility explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are heartbroken,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable financial backing,” the operator added.

In a later statement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the operator stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the deadline is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or ethical alternative” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were filled with responses from the community, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while past workers expressed hope that the sanctuary would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The director noted that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered menacing and abusive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We understand that emotions are high, but we request kindness and respect as we navigate this devastating situation.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the determination to put down the big cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A high-ranking officer explained that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done properly,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to meet its animal welfare and enclosure obligations.”

The facility achieved some recognition in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility repeatedly ran into economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the establishment to shut down until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.