🔗 Share this article

A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online announcement, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are heartbroken,” said the park’s director.

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial monetary input,” the operator noted.

In a subsequent statement, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were declining. These actions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the operator stated.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the window is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or humane alternative” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would rethink the plan to put them down.

The operator stated that amid the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and respect as we navigate this tragic predicament.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to euthanise the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer explained that putting down had to be performed humanely, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the representative said. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to satisfy its animal care and security responsibilities.”

The facility achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary frequently encountered financial trouble and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the establishment to close until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.