Struggling New Zealand Animal Sanctuary Euthanises Pair of Lions, Future of Five More Uncertain

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

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

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

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are deeply saddened,” said the facility’s manager.

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial monetary input,” the director explained.

In a subsequent announcement, the sanctuary announced 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 not treatable and were worsening. These choices were made with deep care and consideration,” the director said.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the property and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the window is limited and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with messages from the community, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The director stated that among the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we ask for kindness and courtesy as we handle this heartbreaking predicament.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the choice to put down the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer explained that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with animal protection legislation.

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

The sanctuary attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary repeatedly ran into monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the park to shut down until the habitats were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.