🔗 Share this article

A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to put down two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media announcement, the facility explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but significant financial backing,” the operator explained.

In a subsequent update, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the director said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have shown interest in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or compassionate option” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were filled 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 plan to put them down.

The operator mentioned that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and abusive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we appeal for consideration and courtesy as we handle this devastating situation.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to humanely kill the lions was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A deputy director stated that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to confirm this is done correctly,” the official noted. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal welfare and security requirements.”

The park gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The facility often experienced economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the park to close until the enclosures were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.