🔗 Share this article

A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a social media post, the establishment indicated that its proprietor 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 difficult decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable financial backing,” the manager explained.

In a subsequent announcement, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and deliberation,” the operator stated.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is short and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to pursue this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or ethical option” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were filled with responses from the community, begging for a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The manager mentioned that among the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and offensive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we appeal for kindness and decency as we manage this heartbreaking situation.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the determination to euthanise the lions rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A high-ranking officer explained that euthanasia had to be carried out humanely, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be on location to ensure this is done properly,” the official said. “We are confident that the facility continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and enclosure responsibilities.”

The sanctuary attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

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

The sanctuary often encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency ordered the establishment to close until the enclosures were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.