A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was forced to put down two of its senior lions, with the fate of the other five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.
The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.
In a social media post, the establishment indicated that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”
“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are devastated,” said the facility’s manager.
“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial capital investment,” the operator noted.
In a later announcement, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.
“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the operator said.
However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.
“A several interested parties have expressed interest in buying the facility and providing for the lions. While the window is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and keep hope alive.”
Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or humane alternative” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.
The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by responses from concerned citizens, begging for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would rethink the course of action to put them down.
The director stated that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered hostile and offensive remarks.
“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we appeal for kindness and courtesy as we manage this devastating predicament.”
The landowner chose not to respond.
The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to humanely kill the big cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been informed of the intention.
A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be carried out humanely, and in line with animal welfare law.
“An regulatory officer will be on location to confirm this is done appropriately,” the representative stated. “We are assured that the establishment continues to meet its animal care and containment requirements.”
The facility gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.
However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.
The park frequently experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the establishment to shut down until the habitats were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.
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