🔗 Share this article

A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a online update, the establishment indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable financial backing,” the manager added.

In a recent statement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the operator said.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in acquiring the property and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the window is tight and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or ethical choice” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with messages from concerned citizens, begging for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The manager noted that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also encountered threatening and offensive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We understand that passions are strong, but we request consideration and courtesy as we navigate this tragic situation.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the decision to euthanise the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A deputy director explained that putting down had to be performed ethically, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to verify this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment requirements.”

The sanctuary attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park frequently ran into financial trouble and staffing problems, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the park to close until the facilities were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.