Troubled New Zealand Animal Sanctuary Euthanises Two Lions, Fate of Five More Unclear

A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a social media update, the facility clarified 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 “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” commented the park’s director.

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial capital investment,” the director explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were declining. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the director stated.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in purchasing the property and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is limited and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to explore this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or humane alternative” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with messages from members of the public, requesting a reprieve for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the park would review the decision to euthanise them.

The operator stated that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered threatening and offensive messages.

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

The property owner refused to comment.

The government department stated that the choice to euthanise the big cats rested with the owners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be performed compassionately, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be onsite to verify this is done properly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are assured that the establishment continues to meet its animal care and enclosure obligations.”

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

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently experienced economic issues and employment issues, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the establishment to shut down until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.