Troubled NZ Animal Sanctuary Puts Down Two Lions, Future of Remaining Five Unclear

A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to put down two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

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

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are devastated,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but significant capital investment,” the director explained.

In a subsequent update, the park announced that two of its lions had been put down.

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

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Although the window is limited and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or compassionate alternative” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by responses from the community, requesting a stay of execution for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed hope that the park would review the course of action to end their lives.

The operator noted that amid the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for compassion and respect as we handle this tragic situation.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The regulatory body indicated that the decision to put down the lions was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be performed ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to verify this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are assured that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure responsibilities.”

The park attained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century 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 cleaning its enclosure.

The park frequently encountered economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the facility to shut down until the habitats were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.