Struggling NZ Wildlife Park Euthanises Two Lions, Fate of Five More Uncertain

A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

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

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial monetary input,” the operator noted.

In a recent statement, the facility verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were declining. These choices were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator said.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in buying the establishment and providing for the lions. Although the timeframe is tight and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to explore this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or ethical option” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were filled with comments from concerned citizens, pleading for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would rethink the course of action to euthanise them.

The manager stated that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered threatening and insulting remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we request kindness and courtesy as we handle this tragic situation.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The government department stated that the determination to humanely kill the lions was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

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

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the operation continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and enclosure obligations.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

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

The facility often experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the park to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.