Financially Stricken New Zealand Animal Sanctuary Puts Down Pair of Lions, Fate of Remaining Five Unclear

A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to put down two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media update, the establishment indicated 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 put down “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are deeply saddened,” commented the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial monetary input,” the director explained.

In a later update, the sanctuary 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 incurable and were worsening. These actions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is limited and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to explore this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or ethical option” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with messages from members of the public, pleading for a second chance for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the facility would review the plan to euthanise them.

The manager mentioned that alongside the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to menacing and offensive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we request kindness and courtesy as we handle this devastating situation.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department clarified that the determination to humanely kill the cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to verify this is done properly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are assured that the facility continues to meet its animal care and containment obligations.”

The sanctuary gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary repeatedly ran into financial trouble and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.