Financially Stricken New Zealand Animal Sanctuary Euthanises Pair of Lions, Future of Remaining Five Unclear

A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

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

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

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant financial backing,” the manager added.

In a recent update, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were declining. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the operator remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in buying the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is tight and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing all we can to investigate this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were flooded with messages from the community, requesting a reprieve for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The director stated that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered threatening and abusive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we request kindness and respect as we navigate this heartbreaking predicament.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the choice to humanely kill the big cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be conducted ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to verify this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to meet its animal care and enclosure obligations.”

The park attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary often ran into monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the establishment to shut down until the habitats were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.