Struggling New Zealand Animal Sanctuary Euthanises Two Lions, Future of Five More Uncertain

A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a online post, the facility indicated 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 put down “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but significant financial backing,” the operator explained.

In a later statement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were worsening. These actions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager said.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in acquiring the property and providing for the lions. Although the timeframe is limited and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or humane option” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with messages from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would review the decision to put them down.

The operator mentioned that alongside the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and insulting comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we request kindness and courtesy as we manage this tragic predicament.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The regulatory body clarified that the determination to euthanise the lions was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A deputy director stated that putting down had to be carried out ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its animal welfare and enclosure requirements.”

The sanctuary achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly experienced monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the park to cease operations until the habitats were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.