Struggling NZ Animal Sanctuary Euthanises Two Lions, Fate of Remaining Five Uncertain

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

The private wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

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

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are devastated,” commented the facility’s manager.

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but significant monetary input,” the director added.

In a subsequent statement, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were declining. These actions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the operator said.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in acquiring the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the deadline is short and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or humane option” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with responses from the community, requesting a second chance for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would rethink the course of action to end their lives.

The director stated that alongside the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and offensive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request kindness and decency as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the determination to euthanise the big cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A senior official commented that humane killing had to be performed compassionately, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are confident that the establishment continues to meet its wildlife protection and containment responsibilities.”

The park gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it featured on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility often ran into economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the establishment to shut down until the enclosures were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.