🔗 Share this article

A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a online update, the establishment indicated that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are deeply saddened,” commented the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable capital investment,” the manager explained.

In a recent statement, the facility confirmed 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 incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be put down.

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and providing for the lions. Although the timeframe is tight and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or humane option” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed hope that the facility would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The manager mentioned that alongside the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also received threatening and offensive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we request kindness and courtesy as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the decision to euthanise the big cats lay with the owners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer stated that humane killing had to be carried out humanely, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to ensure this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are assured that the facility continues to meet its wildlife protection and security obligations.”

The park attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary often encountered financial trouble and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the facility to shut down until the enclosures were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.