Struggling New Zealand Animal Sanctuary Puts Down Pair of Lions, Fate of Remaining Five Uncertain

A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media post, the facility explained that its owner 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 challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are deeply saddened,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant financial backing,” the manager added.

In a subsequent announcement, the facility announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were declining. These actions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the operator said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is short and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or ethical choice” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed desire that the park would rethink the course of action to euthanise them.

The director noted that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We understand that passions are strong, but we request compassion and decency as we navigate this devastating predicament.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to put down the big cats lay with the owners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A senior official explained that euthanasia had to be conducted ethically, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to ensure this is done correctly,” the representative stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and enclosure requirements.”

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

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

The park often experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the establishment to close until the habitats were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.