🔗 Share this article

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

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

In a online update, the establishment explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” stated the park’s director.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable capital investment,” the director noted.

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

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were declining. These actions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager remarked.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be put down.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is tight and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to investigate this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or humane choice” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from the community, pleading for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed hope that the sanctuary would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The manager mentioned that alongside the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also received threatening and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that emotions are high, but we request compassion and decency as we manage this devastating predicament.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The regulatory body clarified that the determination to humanely kill the big cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A high-ranking officer commented that putting down had to be performed humanely, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson said. “We are confident that the facility continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and containment responsibilities.”

The park gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

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

The sanctuary often encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the park to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.