Overview
- The privately run facility in Whangarei is shutting permanently after funding was withdrawn, according to director Janette Vallance.
- Two elderly lions were euthanized on Wednesday due to incurable illness, and five others could follow in the coming days.
- Vallance said the remaining lions are 18–21 years old, many are sick, and transport to other New Zealand zoos is not a viable option.
- Several parties have contacted the sanctuary about taking over the site to care for Shikira, Cleo, Abdullah, Timba and Themba, though time is short and the outcome remains uncertain.
- The announcement drew intense criticism online and threats toward staff, and the site’s history includes safety and financial issues, a 2009 keeper death, and a 2023 euthanasia of a black leopard.