🔗 Share this article

A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media announcement, the facility indicated that its owner had listed the land 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 landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are devastated,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial capital investment,” the director explained.

In a recent announcement, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were declining. These choices were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the director stated.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the establishment and providing for the lions. While the deadline is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to explore this option and keep hope alive.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with responses from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The operator stated that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We understand that passions are strong, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we manage this tragic situation.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the determination to euthanise the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A senior official commented that euthanasia had to be carried out humanely, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to verify this is done correctly,” the official stated. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its animal welfare and security requirements.”

The facility achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary repeatedly ran into financial trouble and employment issues, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.