Financially Stricken New Zealand Animal Sanctuary Euthanises Pair of Lions, Future of Remaining Five Uncertain

A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a online post, the establishment clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” said the facility’s manager.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable financial backing,” the manager explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and consideration,” the director said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Although the deadline is limited and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or ethical option” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by responses from concerned citizens, pleading for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed desire that the park would review the course of action to put them down.

The manager noted that among the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and abusive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we request consideration and respect as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the determination to euthanise the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A deputy director explained that humane killing had to be conducted humanely, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to confirm this is done properly,” the official noted. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its animal welfare and security obligations.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early part of the century when it appeared on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park often encountered economic issues and employment issues, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to close until the enclosures were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.