Troubled NZ Animal Sanctuary Puts Down Pair of Lions, Fate of Five More Unclear

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

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

In a online post, the establishment indicated 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 difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are heartbroken,” said the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable monetary input,” the director explained.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager remarked.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in acquiring the facility and maintaining care for the lions. While the timeframe is short and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or ethical choice” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with messages from the community, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the park would review the course of action to end their lives.

The operator noted that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and insulting messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we ask for compassion and respect as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the decision to euthanise the cats lay with the owners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A senior official explained that humane killing had to be carried out compassionately, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to verify this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson said. “We are confident that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and enclosure responsibilities.”

The sanctuary gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary repeatedly encountered financial trouble and staffing problems, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the facility to close until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.