🔗 Share this article

A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to euthanise two of its older lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a online update, the establishment clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are deeply saddened,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial capital investment,” the operator noted.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the deadline is limited and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

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

The facility’s posts were flooded with messages from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would rethink the plan to end their lives.

The manager stated that among the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also received menacing and abusive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we appeal for consideration and respect as we manage this heartbreaking predicament.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to put down the cats lay with the owners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A high-ranking officer stated that humane killing had to be conducted humanely, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to confirm this is done properly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and enclosure responsibilities.”

The park achieved a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

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

The park frequently encountered financial trouble and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the establishment to close until the enclosures were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.