Financially Stricken New Zealand Animal Sanctuary Puts Down Pair of Lions, Fate of Five More Uncertain

A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to put down two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility indicated 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 “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are deeply saddened,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable monetary input,” the operator noted.

In a subsequent announcement, the park announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in buying the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is short and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or humane option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were flooded with comments from the community, requesting a second chance for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed desire that the sanctuary would review the course of action to euthanise them.

The manager mentioned that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we appeal for kindness and courtesy as we manage this heartbreaking predicament.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the decision to euthanise the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be performed compassionately, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal care and containment obligations.”

The park gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park repeatedly encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the establishment to close until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.