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Financially Stricken NZ Animal Sanctuary Euthanises Two Lions, Fate of Remaining Five Uncertain
A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to put down two of its senior lions, with the fate of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.
The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.
In a online announcement, the establishment clarified that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”
“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are devastated,” said the park’s director.
“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable capital investment,” the director added.
In a subsequent statement, the facility verified that two of its lions had been put down.
“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were declining. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator said.
However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.
“A several interested parties have shown interest in acquiring the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the window is short and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and keep hope alive.”
Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or compassionate alternative” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.
The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by responses from the community, pleading for a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the facility would rethink the decision to end their lives.
The manager noted that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also encountered threatening and abusive remarks.
“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We understand that passions are strong, but we request kindness and decency as we manage this heartbreaking predicament.”
The landowner refused to comment.
The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to put down the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the course of action.
A deputy director commented that euthanasia had to be carried out humanely, and in accordance with animal welfare law.
“An animal welfare inspector will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and containment responsibilities.”
The sanctuary attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.
However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.
The sanctuary frequently encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.
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