Struggling NZ Animal Sanctuary Euthanises Two Lions, Fate of Remaining Five Uncertain

A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment indicated that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are devastated,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable monetary input,” the director explained.

In a recent announcement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were declining. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the operator said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have shown interest in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is tight and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or compassionate option” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by responses from the community, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the facility would review the course of action to end their lives.

The operator noted that alongside the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to hostile and offensive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we request compassion and courtesy as we handle this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the decision to put down the big cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A deputy director explained that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to confirm this is done correctly,” the official noted. “We are confident that the operation continues to meet its animal welfare and containment requirements.”

The park gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary frequently experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.