Financially Stricken NZ Animal Sanctuary Euthanises Pair of Lions, Fate of Remaining Five Uncertain

A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a online update, the establishment explained that its owner 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 landowner.”

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

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial capital investment,” the director explained.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the director stated.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. While the deadline is limited and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to pursue this option and keep hope alive.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by messages from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed hope that the park would rethink the decision to euthanise them.

The director noted that among the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered hostile and offensive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for compassion and decency as we manage this devastating predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the choice to euthanise the lions was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

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

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done properly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are confident that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure responsibilities.”

The park achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility frequently encountered monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the government agency instructed the park to shut down until the enclosures were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.