🔗 Share this article

A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media update, the facility clarified that its owner had listed the land 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 landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff 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 outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial capital investment,” the manager noted.

In a later update, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were declining. These choices were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator said.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. While the window is limited and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to explore this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or ethical choice” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were filled with comments from members of the public, begging for a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would reconsider the plan to put them down.

The manager noted that alongside the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and abusive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we ask for kindness and respect as we manage this tragic predicament.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the choice to put down the lions was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer explained that putting down had to be performed compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson said. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park often experienced financial trouble and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the facility to shut down until the facilities were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.