WELLINGTON: (Bernama-dpa) Five lions due to be euthanised in New Zealand have been saved after a group of investors stepped in to rescue the animals, reported German Press Agency (dpa).
The Kamo Wildlife Sanctuary was forced to close last year after funding ran out, and relocation of the animals was deemed impossible because of the lions' age and medical condition.
On Tuesday (March 3), a group of animal lovers and investors called the Lionhearts Project revealed it had stepped in to save the lions.
"We've purchased their land and closed the gates to the public, turning the former park into a private retirement sanctuary," the group said in a statement.
"No more shows. No more crowds. Just peace, dignity, and the best 'aged care' a lion could ask for."
"We want Shikira, Abdullah, Cleo, Themba, and Timba to wake up every morning knowing they are loved, protected, and exactly where they belong. This is their home now, truly and finally," trustee Tim Groenendaal said.
The group had launched a crowdfunding appeal to feed and care for the five lions.
"The rescue is done, but the retirement is just beginning. Feeding and caring for five elderly lions costs thousands every week. We need our community to step up and help us fund their 'Golden Years,'" the group said.
Animal charity HUHA, which helped bring the group together, said it took "a village of property investment heroes" to pull off the purchase.
"We are just so grateful for each one of them - for their commitment, compassion and vision," HUHA wrote on Facebook.
The park was started by Craig Busch, also known as "The Lion Man," and featured on a television series in the early 2000s.
In 2009, head keeper Dalu Mncube was mauled to death by a tiger at the park, which once housed about 30 endangered cats, including lions, white tigers, leopards and cheetahs. - Bernama
