Financially Stricken New Zealand Animal Sanctuary Euthanises Two Lions, Fate of Remaining Five Uncertain
A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.
The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.
In a social media announcement, the facility clarified that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”
“There were no real options left. The employees and I are devastated,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.
“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable financial backing,” the operator noted.
In a recent announcement, the facility verified that two of its lions had been put down.
“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the director stated.
However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be euthanised.
“A several interested parties have shown interest in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is limited and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to explore this option and keep hope alive.”
Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.
The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the plan to put them down.
The operator mentioned that among the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also encountered hostile and offensive comments.
“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and decency as we handle this tragic predicament.”
The landowner chose not to respond.
The regulatory body clarified that the decision to euthanise the big cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the intention.
A high-ranking officer stated that putting down had to be performed humanely, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.
“An regulatory officer will be onsite to verify this is done properly,” the official said. “We are assured that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal care and security responsibilities.”
The facility achieved minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.
However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while performing maintenance.
The facility frequently encountered financial trouble and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.
