🔗 Share this article

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

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a online announcement, the establishment explained that its proprietor 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 tough decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are deeply saddened,” said the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable financial backing,” the operator noted.

In a recent update, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were declining. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator said.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in acquiring the property and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the window is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to explore this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or humane choice” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the course of action to end their lives.

The operator noted that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also encountered threatening and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We understand that emotions are high, but we request kindness and respect as we manage this heartbreaking predicament.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body clarified that the decision to humanely kill the big cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director stated that putting down had to be performed compassionately, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be on location to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson said. “We are assured that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and enclosure obligations.”

The park gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it appeared on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility frequently encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to shut down until the enclosures were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.