🔗 Share this article

A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the past 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 “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are deeply saddened,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial financial backing,” the manager explained.

In a recent update, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were worsening. These choices were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the director stated.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is short and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or ethical choice” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were filled with messages from the community, pleading for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while past workers expressed hope that the park would rethink the course of action to euthanise them.

The operator noted that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received threatening and offensive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and courtesy as we handle this tragic predicament.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the determination to humanely kill the lions lay with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A senior official explained that putting down had to be performed ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson stated. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The facility attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary often encountered monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to close until the enclosures were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.