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

A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media announcement, the establishment explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial financial backing,” the operator explained.

In a subsequent statement, the park verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were declining. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the operator said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be put down.

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in acquiring the establishment and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is short and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to explore this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or ethical option” due to their age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were flooded with messages from members of the public, begging for a second chance for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the park would review the plan to end their lives.

The operator noted that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and respect as we handle this tragic predicament.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to humanely kill the cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A high-ranking officer explained that humane killing had to be carried out ethically, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to confirm this is done appropriately,” the representative said. “We are confident that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal welfare and enclosure responsibilities.”

The park gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.