🔗 Share this article

A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media update, 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 “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant capital investment,” the operator explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were worsening. These choices were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the operator said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A several interested parties have shown interest in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the window is limited and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to investigate this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or ethical option” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, pleading for a second chance for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would review the plan to put them down.

The manager mentioned that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we appeal for consideration and respect as we navigate this heartbreaking situation.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The government department stated that the decision to euthanise the cats lay with the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

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

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the representative noted. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility frequently ran into economic issues and staffing problems, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the establishment to cease operations until the enclosures were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.