Troubled NZ Animal Sanctuary Euthanises Pair of Lions, Fate of Five More Unclear

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

The private wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a social media update, the facility indicated that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are deeply saddened,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable monetary input,” the director added.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in buying the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with responses from the community, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the park would rethink the decision to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and abusive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we navigate this devastating circumstance.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the choice to humanely kill the lions lay with the owners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer stated that euthanasia had to be performed compassionately, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to confirm this is done properly,” the representative noted. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its animal welfare and enclosure requirements.”

The sanctuary gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it was shown on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

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

The facility repeatedly experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the establishment to shut down until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.