🔗 Share this article

A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to put down two of its senior lions, with the fate of the other five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media post, the facility clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial monetary input,” the manager noted.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the director stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A several interested parties have shown interest in purchasing the establishment and providing for the lions. Even though the window is tight and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to pursue this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or humane alternative” due to their age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, requesting a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed hope that the facility would rethink the course of action to euthanise them.

The director stated that among the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We understand that passions are strong, but we ask for kindness and decency as we navigate this devastating situation.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The government department indicated that the choice to euthanise the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A deputy director explained that humane killing had to be performed humanely, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the official stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to meet its wildlife protection and security obligations.”

The facility attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary frequently encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.