🔗 Share this article

A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a online update, the facility indicated that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are devastated,” commented the facility’s manager.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial capital investment,” the director added.

In a subsequent statement, the sanctuary announced 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 incurable and were declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the manager remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in buying the property and maintaining care for the lions. While the timeframe is short and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or ethical option” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from the community, pleading for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the facility would rethink the course of action to end their lives.

The director mentioned that amid the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we request kindness and courtesy as we manage this devastating circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The government department stated that the determination to put down the big cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer explained that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be onsite to ensure this is done properly,” the spokesperson said. “We are confident that the establishment continues to meet its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The park 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 quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary frequently ran into economic issues and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency ordered the park to close until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.