Struggling NZ Animal Sanctuary Euthanises Pair of Lions, Fate of Remaining Five Unclear

A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a online post, the facility clarified that its proprietor had listed the land 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 property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are deeply saddened,” stated the park’s director.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial capital investment,” the operator explained.

In a later statement, the park announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were declining. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the operator remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in buying the facility and providing for the lions. Even though the timeframe is short and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or humane choice” due to their age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with messages from concerned citizens, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the park would rethink the decision to put them down.

The manager noted that among the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered hostile and insulting comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we request consideration and decency as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the decision to humanely kill the lions lay with the owners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A deputy director commented that putting down had to be conducted humanely, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to ensure this is done properly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and containment requirements.”

The facility achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park repeatedly encountered economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the park to close until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.