🔗 Share this article

A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to put down two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility explained 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 property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are heartbroken,” said the park’s director.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable monetary input,” the director explained.

In a later statement, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were declining. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be put down.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and providing for the lions. Although the timeframe is tight and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or ethical choice” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with comments from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the sanctuary would rethink the plan to put them down.

The operator noted that amid the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also received menacing and insulting remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we request consideration and courtesy as we manage this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the choice to put down the big cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director commented that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment requirements.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

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

The facility repeatedly encountered economic issues and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the facility to shut down until the enclosures were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.