🔗 Share this article

A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to put down two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

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

In a online update, the facility 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 “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are heartbroken,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial monetary input,” the operator added.

In a recent update, the park verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were declining. These actions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the director stated.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in acquiring the establishment and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is tight and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or humane option” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with messages from concerned citizens, pleading for a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the facility would rethink the plan to end their lives.

The director stated that among the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we appeal for kindness and decency as we navigate this devastating situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the choice to humanely kill the big cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A senior official explained that euthanasia had to be performed humanely, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the representative said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary repeatedly encountered economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.