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

A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the fate of the other five lions still uncertain, 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 explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable capital investment,” the manager explained.

In a later update, the park announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

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

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and providing for the lions. While the window is tight and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or humane option” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would review the decision to end their lives.

The manager mentioned that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received menacing and offensive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and decency as we manage this tragic predicament.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The government department clarified that the decision to humanely kill the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A senior official commented that humane killing had to be carried out humanely, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson said. “We are assured that the operation continues to meet its wildlife protection and containment requirements.”

The sanctuary attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary often ran into monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the establishment to close until the facilities were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.