Troubled New Zealand Animal Sanctuary Euthanises Pair of Lions, Future of Remaining Five Unclear

A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to put down two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online announcement, the facility explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant monetary input,” the operator added.

In a later statement, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the director stated.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the window is tight and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to pursue this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or humane option” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed desire that the facility would rethink the plan to end their lives.

The manager stated that alongside the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered hostile and insulting remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we request consideration and courtesy as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department clarified that the decision to euthanise the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be onsite to ensure this is done correctly,” the official stated. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and security requirements.”

The sanctuary achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility often encountered economic issues and employment issues, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the park to shut down until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.