Troubled NZ Animal Sanctuary Euthanises Pair of Lions, Fate of Remaining Five Uncertain

A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to put down two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media announcement, the facility 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 landowner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable financial backing,” the director added.

In a recent update, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were worsening. These decisions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the operator stated.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in buying the property and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is limited and the situation remain unclear, we are doing all 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 age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were filled with comments from the community, begging for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the park would review the plan to put them down.

The operator stated that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to threatening and offensive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that emotions are high, but we ask for compassion and respect as we handle this devastating circumstance.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the determination to euthanise the big cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A high-ranking officer commented that putting down had to be performed humanely, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be on location to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are confident that the operation continues to meet its wildlife protection and enclosure responsibilities.”

The sanctuary gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park often ran into economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the park to shut down until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.