Struggling New Zealand Animal Sanctuary Puts Down Two Lions, Fate of Five More Uncertain

A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to put down two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media post, the establishment clarified 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 tough decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant financial backing,” the manager added.

In a recent statement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

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

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is limited and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or humane alternative” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were flooded with responses from members of the public, begging for a second chance for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The director stated that among the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and offensive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and respect as we manage this devastating predicament.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the decision to euthanise the big cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A high-ranking officer explained that humane killing had to be conducted ethically, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the spokesperson said. “We are assured that the facility continues to meet its animal welfare and security obligations.”

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

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary frequently experienced economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the park to close until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.