🔗 Share this article

A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media update, the facility clarified that its proprietor 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 property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable financial backing,” the operator explained.

In a subsequent update, the facility verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and providing for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to investigate this option and maintain optimism.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with messages from concerned citizens, requesting a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The director mentioned that among the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and offensive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we request consideration and decency as we manage this devastating circumstance.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the determination to humanely kill the lions lay with the owners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be carried out compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are assured that the facility continues to meet its animal welfare and enclosure obligations.”

The sanctuary attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary often encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.