Struggling New Zealand Animal Sanctuary Puts Down Two Lions, Fate of Five More Unclear

A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to put down two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media update, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable financial backing,” the manager noted.

In a recent update, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were declining. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the director stated.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the window is tight and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to investigate this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or humane alternative” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from the community, pleading for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the course of action to put them down.

The operator noted that among the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered menacing and abusive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we ask for kindness and respect as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to put down the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

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 on location to confirm this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the operation continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment obligations.”

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

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park frequently encountered economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the facility to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.