Financially Stricken NZ Animal Sanctuary Puts Down Two Lions, Fate of Remaining Five Unclear
A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to put down two of its older lions, with the fate of the other five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.
The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.
In a online post, the facility clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”
“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are devastated,” commented the facility’s manager.
“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable financial backing,” the manager added.
In a later announcement, the facility verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.
“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were declining. These choices were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the manager said.
However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be euthanised.
“A several interested parties have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and providing for the lions. Even though the timeframe is tight and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”
Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or ethical alternative” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.
The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, pleading for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the facility would review the plan to put them down.
The operator noted that amid the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also received threatening and offensive messages.
“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and decency as we navigate this devastating circumstance.”
The landowner declined to comment.
The ministry for primary industries stated that the choice to humanely kill the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the plan.
A senior official stated that putting down had to be performed ethically, and in accordance with animal welfare law.
“An compliance official will be on location to confirm this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to satisfy its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”
The park achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.
However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.
The sanctuary often ran into financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the establishment to close until the enclosures were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.