Struggling NZ Animal Sanctuary Euthanises Pair of Lions, Future of Five More Unclear

A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a online update, 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 difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are heartbroken,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable financial backing,” the manager added.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were declining. These actions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the operator remarked.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in acquiring the property and providing for the lions. Even though the timeframe is limited and the situation remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to explore this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or compassionate option” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with comments from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed hope that the park would rethink the plan to put them down.

The director noted that alongside the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered threatening and insulting remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

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

A deputy director stated that euthanasia had to be carried out humanely, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and security responsibilities.”

The facility achieved some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

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

The park frequently encountered monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the park to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.