🔗 Share this article

A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a online post, the establishment explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are heartbroken,” stated the park’s director.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable monetary input,” the manager explained.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the operator stated.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or compassionate option” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the sanctuary would rethink the course of action to end their lives.

The director noted that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also encountered hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request consideration and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The government department indicated that the determination to humanely kill the lions lay with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the representative stated. “We are assured that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment obligations.”

The facility achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility repeatedly encountered economic issues and staffing problems, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.