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

A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to put down two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media announcement, the facility explained 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 “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial capital investment,” the director noted.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were declining. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the manager said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the deadline is limited and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to investigate this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the course of action to end their lives.

The manager mentioned that alongside the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The government department clarified that the determination to put down the cats lay with the owners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A deputy director commented that putting down had to be performed ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are confident that the operation continues to meet its animal care and enclosure requirements.”

The facility attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility often ran into economic issues and employment issues, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency directed the park to close until the enclosures were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.