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

A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a online update, the establishment clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but significant financial backing,” the operator noted.

In a later statement, the park verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the operator stated.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Although the deadline is limited and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or compassionate alternative” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with messages from the community, pleading for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered menacing and insulting remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we request compassion and respect as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the choice to euthanise the lions lay with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A deputy director stated that humane killing had to be carried out humanely, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to ensure this is done properly,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to meet its wildlife protection and enclosure requirements.”

The sanctuary gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary repeatedly experienced monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the park to close until the facilities were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.