🔗 Share this article

A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media post, the facility explained that its proprietor 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 tough decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but significant monetary input,” the operator added.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were worsening. These choices were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the operator stated.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in acquiring the property and continuing to care for the lions. Although the window is tight and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or humane alternative” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with responses from the community, pleading for a second chance for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the facility would review the decision to put them down.

The manager noted that alongside the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered threatening and offensive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we request compassion and respect as we manage this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The government department clarified that the determination to euthanise the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A high-ranking officer stated that putting down had to be performed compassionately, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be present to verify this is done correctly,” the official noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment requirements.”

The park attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary often experienced financial trouble and staffing problems, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the park to close until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.