🔗 Share this article

A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility explained that its proprietor 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 tough decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are deeply saddened,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable capital investment,” the manager added.

In a recent statement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Although the timeframe is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to investigate this option and maintain optimism.”

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

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by responses from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed hope that the sanctuary would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The manager mentioned that alongside the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and offensive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and respect as we navigate this devastating circumstance.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the determination to humanely kill the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the plan.

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

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to ensure this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and containment requirements.”

The facility attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently ran into financial trouble and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the park to shut down until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.