🔗 Share this article

A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a online announcement, the facility indicated that its owner had put the property 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 property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are heartbroken,” commented the park’s director.

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable financial backing,” the manager added.

In a subsequent announcement, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were declining. These choices were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the operator remarked.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in acquiring the establishment and providing for the lions. Even though the window is limited and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

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 messages from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the plan to end their lives.

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

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we ask for kindness and respect as we navigate this tragic predicament.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to humanely kill the lions rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A high-ranking officer stated that putting down had to be carried out compassionately, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and containment obligations.”

The sanctuary attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park often experienced economic issues and employment issues, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the park to shut down until the enclosures were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.