Financially Stricken NZ Animal Sanctuary Euthanises Pair of Lions, Fate of Five More Uncertain

A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to put down two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

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

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” said the facility’s manager.

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable monetary input,” the director noted.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the operator remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in acquiring the property and providing for the lions. Although the timeframe is tight and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to investigate this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with responses from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed hope that the sanctuary would review the course of action to end their lives.

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

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we ask for compassion and decency as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the decision to euthanise the big cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

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

“An regulatory officer will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and containment responsibilities.”

The sanctuary achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park frequently experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the establishment to close until the habitats were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.