🔗 Share this article

A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a online post, the facility clarified that its proprietor 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 “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are heartbroken,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but significant monetary input,” the manager added.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. While the window is limited and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to explore this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, begging for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The manager stated that among the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to hostile and abusive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We understand that passions are strong, but we request compassion and respect as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the decision to euthanise the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director stated that putting down had to be carried out ethically, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the representative said. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure responsibilities.”

The sanctuary attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary repeatedly encountered financial trouble and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the park to close until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.