Troubled NZ Animal Sanctuary Euthanises Two Lions, Future of Remaining Five Uncertain

A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was forced to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a social media post, the facility 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 challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are heartbroken,” stated the park’s director.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial monetary input,” the operator added.

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 grave illnesses that were incurable and were worsening. These actions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the operator remarked.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Although the window is short and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to explore this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or humane alternative” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were flooded with comments from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the park would review the plan to euthanise them.

The manager noted that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and abusive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we appeal for consideration and respect as we handle this devastating circumstance.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the choice to euthanise the cats lay with the owners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director commented that humane killing had to be performed humanely, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the representative said. “We are confident that the operation continues to meet its animal welfare and enclosure requirements.”

The sanctuary attained minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.