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

A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media update, the facility clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant monetary input,” the manager noted.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the director stated.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in acquiring the property and providing for the lions. While the window is short and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to explore this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or humane alternative” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, pleading for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed hope that the sanctuary would rethink the course of action to put them down.

The manager stated that alongside the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to menacing and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for consideration and decency as we manage this heartbreaking situation.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the determination to humanely kill the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A high-ranking officer explained that putting down had to be carried out humanely, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to verify this is done correctly,” the official stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to meet its animal care and containment obligations.”

The facility gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility frequently encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.