🔗 Share this article

A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to put down two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online announcement, the facility indicated that its owner had listed the land 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 property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are devastated,” said the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial financial backing,” the operator explained.

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

“We had to part with 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 consideration,” the manager remarked.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be put down.

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in buying the facility and providing for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to pursue this option and keep hope alive.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with responses from concerned citizens, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed hope that the sanctuary would review the course of action to euthanise them.

The operator noted that among the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to threatening and insulting messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We understand that passions are strong, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we navigate this tragic situation.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body indicated that the determination to put down the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

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

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to confirm this is done properly,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to meet its animal care and security requirements.”

The facility achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly ran into monetary difficulties and employment issues, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the establishment to close until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.