Sanctuary Forced to Euthanize Aging Lions Amid Financial Woes

As of November 2025, the Kamo Wildlife Sanctuary in New Zealand has been forced to euthanize two of its aging lions due to the park's ongoing financial difficulties. The privately-owned sanctuary, located in the northern city of Whangārei, has been up for sale since August 2023 after struggling with financial challenges for years.

The sanctuary's operator, Janette Vallance, stated that the two lions had "serious health conditions that were not treatable and were deteriorating." She acknowledged the significant public backlash following the initial decision to euthanize all seven big cats at the sanctuary, but explained that relocation was not a viable or humane option due to the animals' advanced age and complex needs.

However, Vallance also shared a glimmer of hope, noting that a few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the remaining five lions. The sanctuary is now doing everything it can to explore this possibility and keep the hope alive for the big cats' future.

The Kamo Wildlife Sanctuary has a tumultuous history, having previously gained attention as the setting for a reality TV show starring its founder, Craig Busch, known as the "Lion Man." In 2009, the park also made international headlines after a rare white tiger mauled a zoo keeper to death in front of horrified tourists.