Financially Stricken NZ Animal Sanctuary Puts Down Two Lions, Fate of Remaining Five Unclear

A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was forced to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a social media post, the establishment explained 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 “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are heartbroken,” said the facility’s manager.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant financial backing,” the operator noted.

In a later update, the facility verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were declining. These decisions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the director remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in buying the establishment and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to explore this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or ethical alternative” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed hope that the park would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The director noted that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also encountered threatening and abusive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We understand that emotions are high, but we ask for compassion and respect as we manage this devastating predicament.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to put down the big cats lay with the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A deputy director stated that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are assured that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal care and containment obligations.”

The park gained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it appeared on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park often experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the establishment to shut down until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.