🔗 Share this article

A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but significant monetary input,” the operator added.

In a subsequent announcement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the director said.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in purchasing the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Although the window is limited and the situation remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to explore this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or compassionate option” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with comments from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the park would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The operator noted that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that emotions are high, but we ask for compassion and courtesy as we navigate this devastating situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the choice to euthanise the lions lay with the owners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

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

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to ensure this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson noted. “We are confident that the operation continues to meet its animal care and security requirements.”

The facility achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility repeatedly ran into economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the park to shut down until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.