Financially Stricken NZ Animal Sanctuary Euthanises Pair of Lions, Fate of Five More Uncertain

A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to euthanise two of its older lions, with the fate of the other five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a online post, the facility explained 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 challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are heartbroken,” said the facility’s manager.

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial capital investment,” the operator added.

In a recent 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 significant medical issues that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. Even though the window is tight and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

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

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, begging for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the facility would rethink the plan to end their lives.

The manager noted that alongside the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to threatening and abusive comments.

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

The landowner refused to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the decision to humanely kill the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director explained that putting down had to be carried out compassionately, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to verify this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal care and enclosure obligations.”

The park gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

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

The facility frequently experienced financial trouble and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the establishment to cease operations until the enclosures were improved. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.