🔗 Share this article

A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to euthanise two of its older lions, with the fate of the other five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a online announcement, the facility clarified that its proprietor 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 “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable financial backing,” the operator noted.

In a recent announcement, the park announced 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 untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator said.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in purchasing the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the window is limited and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or humane alternative” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were flooded with comments from concerned citizens, pleading for a second chance for the other big cats, while past workers expressed hope that the facility would rethink the plan to end their lives.

The operator noted that alongside the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We understand that passions are strong, but we appeal for kindness and decency as we manage this tragic situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to humanely kill the lions was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are assured that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal care and security responsibilities.”

The park attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it appeared on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary often encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.