Struggling NZ Wildlife Park Euthanises Two Lions, Fate of Remaining Five Uncertain

A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a online announcement, the facility indicated that its owner 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 landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are deeply saddened,” said the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable monetary input,” the manager explained.

In a subsequent update, the park confirmed 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 not treatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or ethical option” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with comments from members of the public, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the sanctuary would review the plan to end their lives.

The manager noted that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and offensive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we ask for kindness and decency as we navigate this devastating circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the choice to put down the big cats rested with the owners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A deputy director stated that putting down had to be conducted ethically, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to verify this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson said. “We are assured that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

The park attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary repeatedly ran into economic issues and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency instructed the park to shut down until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.