Financially Stricken NZ Animal Sanctuary Puts Down Pair of Lions, Future of Remaining Five Uncertain

A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to put down two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media update, the establishment explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team 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 considerable financial backing,” the director added.

In a subsequent announcement, the park confirmed 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 deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and deliberation,” the director stated.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have shown interest in acquiring the property and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the deadline is short and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or ethical choice” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from the community, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the facility would review the plan to end their lives.

The manager stated that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and abusive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We understand that passions are strong, but we appeal for kindness and respect as we manage this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the decision to put down the cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer explained that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to ensure this is done properly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to meet its wildlife protection and enclosure obligations.”

The park achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park often experienced financial trouble and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the facility to cease operations until the enclosures were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.