🔗 Share this article

A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a online announcement, the establishment indicated 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 “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant financial backing,” the operator noted.

In a subsequent statement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Although the timeframe is limited and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to explore this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by messages from the community, requesting a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the plan to end their lives.

The manager mentioned that among the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also received menacing and abusive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we appeal for kindness and respect as we navigate this devastating situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the decision to euthanise the cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official stated that humane killing had to be performed ethically, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done properly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are assured that the facility continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and enclosure requirements.”

The sanctuary attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary often ran into financial trouble and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency instructed the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.