Troubled New Zealand Animal Sanctuary Puts Down Two Lions, Future of Remaining Five Unclear

A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to put down two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a online update, the establishment indicated 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 put down “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are heartbroken,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable financial backing,” the manager noted.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and consideration,” 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 few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. While the window is short and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or humane alternative” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with comments from members of the public, begging for a second chance for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the park would review the plan to euthanise them.

The director noted that alongside the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and offensive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we manage this heartbreaking situation.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to put down the big cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A senior official explained that putting down had to be conducted humanely, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be on location to verify this is done properly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are assured that the establishment continues to meet its animal welfare and enclosure obligations.”

The sanctuary achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility often experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the establishment to shut down until the habitats were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.