Financially Stricken NZ Animal Sanctuary Puts Down Two Lions, Future of Five More Uncertain

A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to put down two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media post, the establishment indicated that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are devastated,” said the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial monetary input,” the operator added.

In a recent update, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues 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 earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in purchasing the establishment and providing for the lions. While the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to explore this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or compassionate choice” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with comments from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the facility would review the decision to end their lives.

The director stated that alongside the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to threatening and insulting remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and decency as we navigate this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The government department indicated that the determination to put down the lions lay with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A high-ranking officer explained that euthanasia had to be performed compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are confident that the facility continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and containment requirements.”

The facility gained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it featured on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility repeatedly encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the facility to close until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.