Financially Stricken New Zealand Animal Sanctuary Puts Down Pair of Lions, Future of Remaining Five Unclear
A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to put down two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.
The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.
In a online post, the establishment clarified 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 euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”
“There were no real options left. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” stated the facility’s manager.
“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial capital investment,” the manager noted.
In a subsequent announcement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.
“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were declining. These choices were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.
However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be euthanised.
“A several interested parties have expressed interest in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Although the deadline is limited and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to investigate this option and keep hope alive.”
Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or compassionate alternative” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.
The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by messages from members of the public, begging for a second chance for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed desire that the park would reconsider the course of action to end their lives.
The manager stated that alongside the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and insulting comments.
“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and decency as we manage this devastating predicament.”
The landowner chose not to respond.
The government department indicated that the choice to euthanise the big cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the course of action.
A high-ranking officer stated that putting down had to be performed compassionately, and in line with animal protection legislation.
“An compliance official will be present to confirm this is done properly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are assured that the operation continues to meet its animal care and security obligations.”
The facility gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.
However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.
The facility frequently ran into monetary difficulties and employment issues, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to shut down until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.