Troubled New Zealand Animal Sanctuary Puts Down Two Lions, Future of Remaining Five Unclear

A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to put down two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a online post, the facility indicated that its proprietor had listed the land 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 landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are heartbroken,” said the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant monetary input,” the manager added.

In a recent announcement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the manager stated.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Although the deadline is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to explore this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or compassionate option” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with responses from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the sanctuary would rethink the course of action to end their lives.

The manager stated that amid the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also received menacing and offensive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and respect as we manage this tragic situation.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the choice to put down the cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official commented that humane killing had to be carried out humanely, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson said. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and containment responsibilities.”

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

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility often experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the park to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.