🔗 Share this article

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

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

In a social media post, the facility clarified that its proprietor 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 challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are deeply saddened,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but significant financial backing,” the manager added.

In a later update, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator remarked.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the window is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to investigate this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or ethical alternative” due to their age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, pleading for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the course of action to end their lives.

The manager stated that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and offensive messages.

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

The landowner declined to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the choice to euthanise the lions lay with the owners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A deputy director stated that humane killing had to be performed ethically, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to ensure this is done properly,” the spokesperson said. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and containment responsibilities.”

The sanctuary attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary frequently ran into economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.