Troubled NZ Animal Sanctuary Euthanises Two Lions, Fate of Remaining Five Unclear

A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media update, the facility clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are devastated,” said the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial monetary input,” the director noted.

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

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were declining. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the director said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be put down.

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the window is limited and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or ethical alternative” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with messages from the community, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would review the course of action to end their lives.

The manager noted that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and offensive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We understand that emotions are high, but we appeal for kindness and courtesy as we handle this tragic predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the decision to humanely kill the big cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A deputy director commented that humane killing had to be performed compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson said. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment requirements.”

The sanctuary gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it featured on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility repeatedly ran into financial trouble and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency instructed the facility to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.