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

A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to put down two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a online update, the facility explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” commented the facility’s manager.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable financial backing,” the operator explained.

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

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were declining. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the director said.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is tight and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to explore this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or humane alternative” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would rethink the plan to put them down.

The manager stated that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and insulting comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We understand that passions are strong, but we request consideration and courtesy as we manage this heartbreaking predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the decision to euthanise the big cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A deputy director stated that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to ensure this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson stated. “We are assured that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and security obligations.”

The park gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility frequently ran into financial trouble and employment issues, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the park to shut down until the facilities were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.