🔗 Share this article

A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was forced to put down two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

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

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but significant capital investment,” the operator noted.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the director remarked.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A several interested parties have shown interest in acquiring the property and providing for the lions. Although the window is tight and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed hope that the facility would rethink the plan to end their lives.

The manager stated that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and abusive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we ask for compassion and respect as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to put down the cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A senior official explained that humane killing had to be conducted ethically, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be onsite to ensure this is done correctly,” the representative said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility frequently ran into economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.