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

A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a online update, the facility explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial financial backing,” the director added.

In a later update, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the manager stated.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in acquiring the establishment and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is limited and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with messages from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would review the decision to end their lives.

The director mentioned that alongside the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to hostile and abusive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we appeal for consideration and courtesy as we handle this heartbreaking predicament.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the determination to put down the lions was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official explained that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the spokesperson said. “We are confident that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and security responsibilities.”

The facility achieved minor fame in the early part of the century when it featured on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly experienced monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.