🔗 Share this article

A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media post, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are devastated,” said the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial monetary input,” the manager explained.

In a later update, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were declining. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the window is short and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

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

The park’s announcements were flooded with comments from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that alongside the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we request consideration and decency as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to put down the big cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A high-ranking officer explained that euthanasia had to be carried out humanely, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the representative said. “We are confident that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and containment requirements.”

The facility attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility often ran into monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to close until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.