🔗 Share this article

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

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility indicated 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 put down “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are devastated,” stated the park’s director.

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but significant capital investment,” the manager added.

In a later update, the park announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were worsening. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the operator remarked.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the facility and providing for the lions. While the window is short and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or humane option” due to their age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would review the course of action to euthanise them.

The operator stated that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and insulting messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and decency as we handle this devastating predicament.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the decision to put down the lions lay with the owners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to confirm this is done properly,” the official said. “We are assured that the operation continues to meet its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The sanctuary achieved a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it was shown on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility frequently encountered monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the government agency ordered the facility to close until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.