Financially Stricken NZ Animal Sanctuary Puts Down Pair of Lions, Future of Remaining Five Uncertain

A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a online update, the establishment explained 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 euthanised “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but significant financial backing,” the manager added.

In a recent statement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were worsening. These choices were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the director remarked.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. While the window is tight and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or ethical choice” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with messages from members of the public, pleading for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to put them down.

The director mentioned that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we appeal for consideration and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The government department stated that the decision to humanely kill the big cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A senior official commented that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the representative said. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and enclosure requirements.”

The sanctuary achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

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

The facility frequently encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency directed the facility to close until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.