🔗 Share this article

A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media post, the establishment clarified that its proprietor 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 “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are deeply saddened,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial monetary input,” the operator noted.

In a recent statement, the facility 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 untreatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the operator said.

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 indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is limited and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or compassionate option” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were filled with responses from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed hope that the facility would review the decision to put them down.

The director mentioned that among the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered threatening and abusive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request kindness and decency as we navigate this devastating circumstance.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

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

A deputy director commented that euthanasia had to be carried out humanely, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are assured that the facility continues to meet its animal welfare and enclosure requirements.”

The park attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.