Troubled New Zealand Animal Sanctuary Puts Down Two Lions, Fate of Remaining Five Uncertain
A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.
The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.
In a social media announcement, the facility indicated that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”
“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are heartbroken,” commented the facility’s manager.
“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable monetary input,” the director added.
In a subsequent statement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.
“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the director said.
However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.
“A handful of parties have shown interest in purchasing the facility and maintaining care for the lions. While the timeframe is short and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and maintain optimism.”
Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.
The facility’s posts were flooded with messages from concerned citizens, requesting a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would rethink the decision to euthanise them.
The manager mentioned that amid the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered threatening and insulting comments.
“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We understand that emotions are high, but we appeal for consideration and decency as we navigate this tragic situation.”
The proprietor refused to comment.
The regulatory body indicated that the determination to humanely kill the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been informed of the plan.
A senior official explained that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with wildlife regulations.
“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to confirm this is done appropriately,” the representative stated. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment requirements.”
The park gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it featured on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.
However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.
The park repeatedly encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency instructed the establishment to close until the facilities were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.
