Troubled NZ Animal Sanctuary Euthanises Pair of Lions, Fate of Five More Unclear
A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to put down two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.
The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the 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.”
“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are devastated,” stated the park’s director.
“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial financial backing,” the operator explained.
In a subsequent statement, the facility verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.
“Yesterday we said goodbye 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 consideration,” the manager remarked.
However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be humanely killed.
“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the deadline is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to explore this option and maintain optimism.”
Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or humane alternative” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.
The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with messages from the community, requesting a stay of execution for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed hope that the facility would reconsider the plan to end their lives.
The manager noted that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and abusive messages.
“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We understand that passions are strong, but we request compassion and courtesy as we handle this devastating situation.”
The proprietor chose not to respond.
The ministry for primary industries clarified that the choice to euthanise the big cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the intention.
A deputy director stated that putting down had to be conducted ethically, and in line with animal welfare law.
“An regulatory officer will be on location to confirm this is done correctly,” the representative said. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and containment responsibilities.”
The park achieved some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.
However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.
The facility often ran into financial trouble and employment issues, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the facility to shut down until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.