🔗 Share this article

A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a online post, the establishment clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are heartbroken,” commented the facility’s manager.

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but significant capital investment,” the director explained.

In a later update, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled 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 thoughtfulness,” the director said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have expressed interest in buying the facility and providing for the lions. While the deadline is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or humane alternative” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the park would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The operator stated that among the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received menacing and abusive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we appeal for kindness and respect as we handle this devastating predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to euthanise the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A deputy director explained that humane killing had to be carried out humanely, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are confident that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and containment obligations.”

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

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park frequently experienced financial trouble and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the establishment to close until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.