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

A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a online update, the facility indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial monetary input,” the director added.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the director said.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in acquiring the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the window is limited and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or ethical choice” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the course of action to put them down.

The operator noted that among the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to hostile and abusive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that passions are strong, but we ask for compassion and decency as we navigate this tragic predicament.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the choice to euthanise the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A high-ranking officer explained that putting down had to be carried out humanely, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to ensure this is done correctly,” the representative said. “We are confident that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and security requirements.”

The facility achieved a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park frequently encountered monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the facility to close until the enclosures were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.