🔗 Share this article

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

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

In a online post, the facility explained that its proprietor had put the property 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.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable financial backing,” the director noted.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were declining. These actions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the operator stated.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the window is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or ethical choice” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with responses from members of the public, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The manager noted that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and insulting comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We understand that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we navigate this tragic situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the choice to humanely kill the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A high-ranking officer explained that putting down had to be conducted humanely, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to confirm this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and containment requirements.”

The sanctuary attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park frequently ran into economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the park to shut down until the facilities were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.