🔗 Share this article

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

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a social media update, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are devastated,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but significant capital investment,” the manager added.

In a recent statement, the sanctuary announced 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 deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and deliberation,” the operator remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with messages from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the sanctuary would review the course of action to put them down.

The operator noted that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also encountered hostile and offensive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we appeal for consideration and respect as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the choice to humanely kill the lions rested with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer stated that humane killing had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to ensure this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are confident that the facility continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and security obligations.”

The facility gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary often encountered economic issues and employment issues, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.