🔗 Share this article

A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to put down two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

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

In a online announcement, the establishment indicated that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” commented 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 purchase of the property but considerable capital investment,” the operator noted.

In a recent update, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the manager said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be put down.

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in acquiring the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Although the window is limited and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or compassionate alternative” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the sanctuary would review the plan to euthanise them.

The manager noted that among the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and abusive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we request consideration and respect as we manage this tragic predicament.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the decision to humanely kill the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A high-ranking officer explained that humane killing had to be conducted ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be on location to confirm this is done appropriately,” the representative stated. “We are assured that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment obligations.”

The facility achieved some recognition 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 staff member was killed by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility repeatedly experienced financial trouble and staffing problems, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency directed the facility to cease operations until the facilities were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.