🔗 Share this article

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

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a social media update, the establishment indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” commented the park’s director.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable financial backing,” the manager added.

In a later statement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were declining. These choices were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the manager remarked.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have expressed interest in acquiring the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the timeframe is short and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to explore this possibility and hold onto hope.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with responses from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would review the decision to put them down.

The manager mentioned that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and insulting remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we request kindness and respect as we navigate this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the determination to humanely kill the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A senior official explained that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the representative stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment requirements.”

The sanctuary attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park often encountered monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the establishment to shut down until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.