🔗 Share this article

A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a online post, the establishment 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 put down “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are heartbroken,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial financial backing,” the director explained.

In a later update, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and consideration,” the director said.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in buying the establishment and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is limited and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

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

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by comments from the community, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also encountered threatening and offensive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we appeal for kindness and respect as we navigate this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to put down the lions was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be onsite to verify this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are confident that the facility continues to meet its animal care and enclosure obligations.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary repeatedly encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to close until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.