Struggling NZ Animal Sanctuary Puts Down Pair of Lions, Fate of Five More Uncertain
A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.
The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.
In a online update, the facility indicated that its proprietor had put the property 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.”
“There were no real options left. The employees and I are devastated,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.
“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial capital investment,” the director added.
In a recent update, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.
“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the manager stated.
However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be euthanised.
“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the property and providing for the lions. Even though the window is short and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to pursue this opportunity and hold onto hope.”
Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.
The facility’s posts were filled with responses from members of the public, begging for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the plan to end their lives.
The manager noted that among the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and abusive comments.
“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We understand that passions are strong, but we request consideration and decency as we handle this devastating predicament.”
The landowner declined to comment.
The regulatory body indicated that the decision to euthanise the lions rested with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the plan.
A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be conducted ethically, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.
“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and enclosure obligations.”
The facility gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.
However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.
The park repeatedly encountered financial trouble and staffing problems, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.
