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

A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to put down two of its older lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment indicated that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant monetary input,” the manager explained.

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

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the director said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” 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 providing for the lions. Even though the timeframe is tight and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to explore this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or ethical alternative” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with responses from the community, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the facility would rethink the decision to euthanise them.

The manager noted that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to threatening and abusive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we appeal for consideration and courtesy as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The government department stated that the decision to humanely kill the lions lay with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A high-ranking officer explained that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be present to confirm this is done properly,” the spokesperson said. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and security obligations.”

The facility achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park often experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the park to cease operations until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.