🔗 Share this article

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

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

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

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” said the park’s director.

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial monetary input,” the manager noted.

In a recent statement, the facility verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator stated.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in acquiring the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is limited and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or ethical option” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from the community, pleading for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The operator noted that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and abusive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we appeal for compassion and decency as we navigate this heartbreaking situation.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the decision to humanely kill the cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director explained that humane killing had to be performed ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be present to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and containment obligations.”

The facility achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park often encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the park to cease operations until the habitats were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.