🔗 Share this article

A beleaguered 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 undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a online post, the establishment explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are devastated,” commented the park’s director.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant capital investment,” the director explained.

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

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the manager remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and maintaining care for the lions. While the timeframe is limited and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with comments from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed desire that the park would review the decision to end their lives.

The manager noted that amid the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered hostile and offensive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and decency as we handle this tragic situation.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the decision to humanely kill the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A deputy director explained that putting down had to be carried out compassionately, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are assured that the establishment continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and enclosure responsibilities.”

The sanctuary gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary often encountered monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the facility to close until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.