Troubled NZ Wildlife Park Euthanises Pair of Lions, Future of Five More Unclear

A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining 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 online post, the facility clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are heartbroken,” stated the park’s director.

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial financial backing,” the operator noted.

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

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were worsening. These decisions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the operator remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and providing for the lions. Even though the timeframe is short and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or humane alternative” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with responses from members of the public, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would reconsider the plan to end their lives.

The director noted that among the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered threatening and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we appeal for kindness and courtesy as we navigate this tragic situation.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the choice to euthanise the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

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

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to verify this is done correctly,” the official noted. “We are assured that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and enclosure responsibilities.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park often experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the park to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.