🔗 Share this article

A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a online post, the facility explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are heartbroken,” stated the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial capital investment,” the operator explained.

In a subsequent announcement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were declining. These choices were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the director said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A several interested parties have shown interest in buying the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is limited and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to explore this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or compassionate option” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from the community, begging for a second chance for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed optimism that the facility would rethink the course of action to euthanise them.

The operator stated that among the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also encountered threatening and abusive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we ask for kindness and courtesy as we navigate this tragic predicament.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the determination to put down the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A senior official explained that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be onsite to ensure this is done properly,” the representative stated. “We are confident that the establishment continues to meet its wildlife protection and security requirements.”

The park gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it featured on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary frequently encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the government agency instructed the facility to cease operations until the facilities were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.