🔗 Share this article

A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to put down two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a online announcement, the establishment clarified 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 put down “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial capital investment,” the director added.

In a recent announcement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were declining. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the director stated.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in buying the property and providing for the lions. Even though the window is tight and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to investigate this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or compassionate alternative” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from the community, pleading for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed hope that the facility would reconsider the course of action to end their lives.

The operator mentioned that among the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to menacing and offensive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for kindness and courtesy as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the determination to euthanise the cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A deputy director commented that euthanasia had to be conducted ethically, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson said. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to satisfy its animal care and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary achieved minor fame in the early part of the century when it featured on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility frequently ran into financial trouble and employment issues, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the establishment to close until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.