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

A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to put down two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

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

In a online announcement, the facility clarified that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

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

“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 significant monetary input,” the operator explained.

In a later statement, the park verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were declining. These actions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the manager stated.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Although the deadline is limited and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

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 specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with messages from concerned citizens, pleading for a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to put them down.

The director noted that among the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We understand that emotions are high, but we appeal for consideration and respect as we handle this heartbreaking predicament.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The government department stated that the choice to euthanise the cats lay with the owners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

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

“An compliance official will be present to confirm this is done correctly,” the representative said. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure requirements.”

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

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility frequently experienced financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to close until the enclosures were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.