🔗 Share this article

A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a online announcement, the facility explained that its owner had listed the land 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.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are deeply saddened,” stated the park’s director.

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial capital investment,” the operator added.

In a later statement, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were declining. These choices were made with deep care and deliberation,” the director said.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is short and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to explore this option and hold onto hope.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with comments from the community, requesting a second chance for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The operator noted that among the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered threatening and abusive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request kindness and decency as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The regulatory body clarified that the decision to humanely kill the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A senior official stated that putting down had to be performed compassionately, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to ensure this is done properly,” the official noted. “We are confident that the facility continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure requirements.”

The sanctuary gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary often ran into economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the facility to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.