🔗 Share this article

A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a social media update, the facility indicated that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable capital investment,” the director explained.

In a recent announcement, the facility verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the operator remarked.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the facility and providing for the lions. Although the timeframe is short and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to explore this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or ethical alternative” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from the community, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the facility would review the decision to put them down.

The operator mentioned that alongside the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered menacing and insulting messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we request kindness and courtesy as we manage this tragic predicament.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The government department stated that the choice to humanely kill the cats lay with the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official explained that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to confirm this is done properly,” the spokesperson said. “We are confident that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and enclosure obligations.”

The facility gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary often experienced economic issues and employment issues, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.