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

A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media post, the facility indicated that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are deeply saddened,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant capital investment,” the director added.

In a recent announcement, the park verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and consideration,” the director stated.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. While the timeframe is tight and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or humane choice” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The manager noted that among the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also received threatening and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We understand that emotions are high, but we request consideration and courtesy as we navigate this tragic predicament.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the choice to euthanise the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A senior official explained that euthanasia had to be performed humanely, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to verify this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson stated. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to meet its animal care and containment obligations.”

The facility achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility frequently experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the facility to close until the habitats were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.