🔗 Share this article

A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media post, the establishment explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable financial backing,” the manager noted.

In a subsequent statement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the operator remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in purchasing the property and maintaining care for the lions. While the timeframe is tight and the situation remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to investigate this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or humane alternative” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would rethink the course of action to end their lives.

The manager noted that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and abusive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We understand that passions are strong, but we ask for compassion and decency as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The government department clarified that the determination to humanely kill the big cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A senior official commented that euthanasia had to be carried out humanely, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be onsite to confirm this is done correctly,” the spokesperson said. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to meet its animal welfare and enclosure requirements.”

The sanctuary achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility frequently experienced monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the government agency ordered the park to shut down until the habitats were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.