🔗 Share this article

A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a online update, the establishment indicated that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are heartbroken,” commented the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial capital investment,” the director explained.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were declining. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the operator remarked.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the facility and providing for the lions. While the deadline is limited and the situation remain unclear, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or ethical alternative” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from concerned citizens, requesting a reprieve for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the facility would reconsider the course of action to end their lives.

The operator stated that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and abusive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We understand that emotions are high, but we request kindness and respect as we navigate this tragic situation.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the determination to euthanise the lions was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A high-ranking officer explained that putting down had to be carried out ethically, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

The facility gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park often ran into financial trouble and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the establishment to close until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.