Financially Stricken NZ Animal Sanctuary Puts Down Two Lions, Fate of Five More Unclear

A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to put down two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a online announcement, the facility explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are deeply saddened,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial financial backing,” the manager explained.

In a recent announcement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with deep care and consideration,” the manager said.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is short and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to explore this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or ethical choice” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with messages from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that alongside the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered threatening and abusive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and respect as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The government department indicated that the determination to euthanise the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A high-ranking officer stated that putting down had to be carried out ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to confirm this is done properly,” the official said. “We are assured that the facility continues to meet its animal care and enclosure requirements.”

The park gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park often encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the facility to shut down until the facilities were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.