🔗 Share this article

A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to put down two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a online post, the facility explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable capital investment,” the manager explained.

In a later update, the sanctuary verified 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 actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have shown interest in purchasing the facility and providing for the lions. Although the timeframe is tight and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing all we can to investigate this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or humane option” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from members of the public, begging for a second chance for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would rethink the plan to put them down.

The manager mentioned that alongside the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and offensive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we manage this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The government department indicated that the determination to euthanise the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A deputy director stated that putting down had to be carried out ethically, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to verify this is done properly,” the spokesperson said. “We are confident that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and security requirements.”

The park achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

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

The sanctuary repeatedly encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the facility to shut down until the habitats were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.