Struggling NZ Animal Sanctuary Puts Down Two Lions, Future of Five More Uncertain

A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media post, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 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 deeply saddened,” said the park’s director.

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial financial backing,” the director added.

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

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were deteriorating. 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 earlier indicated would be put down.

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in buying the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Although the deadline is limited and the situation remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to explore this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with messages from the community, pleading for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The operator mentioned that among the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received menacing and abusive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request kindness and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking predicament.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the determination to put down the cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A senior official explained that putting down had to be carried out humanely, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the representative stated. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and enclosure obligations.”

The facility attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park frequently encountered economic issues and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.