Troubled New Zealand Animal Sanctuary Euthanises Pair of Lions, Fate of Five More Unclear

A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was forced to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the 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 sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant monetary input,” the operator noted.

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

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A several interested parties have shown interest in acquiring the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. While the window is tight and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to explore this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or ethical option” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with responses from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the park would review the course of action to end their lives.

The manager mentioned that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also encountered threatening and insulting remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we ask for compassion and courtesy as we handle this tragic predicament.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the choice to euthanise the lions lay with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A high-ranking officer commented that putting down had to be conducted ethically, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done properly,” the official noted. “We are assured that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

The park gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park often ran into financial trouble and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the facility to close until the enclosures were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.