Financially Stricken New Zealand Animal Sanctuary Euthanises Two Lions, Fate of Remaining Five Unclear
A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.
The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.
In a online announcement, the establishment explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”
“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are heartbroken,” said the facility’s manager.
“While it could potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but significant monetary input,” the manager noted.
In a subsequent statement, the facility verified that two of its lions had been put down.
“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the manager remarked.
However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be put down.
“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the facility and providing for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”
Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or humane option” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.
The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, begging for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would review the plan to end their lives.
The manager noted that alongside the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also received menacing and abusive comments.
“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We understand that emotions are high, but we ask for compassion and respect as we handle this tragic predicament.”
The landowner declined to comment.
The government department stated that the decision to put down the big cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the plan.
A high-ranking officer explained that euthanasia had to be conducted humanely, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.
“An compliance official will be onsite to confirm this is done properly,” the official noted. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and enclosure responsibilities.”
The park achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.
However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.
The facility frequently ran into financial trouble and staffing problems, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the park to close until the enclosures were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.
