🔗 Share this article

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

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

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

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” stated the park’s director.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable capital investment,” the manager noted.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Although the timeframe is short and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

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

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from members of the public, begging for a second chance for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the facility would rethink the decision to put them down.

The director mentioned that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to threatening and insulting comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we handle this devastating circumstance.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the determination to euthanise the cats lay with the owners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A high-ranking officer explained that euthanasia had to be conducted ethically, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be onsite to verify this is done correctly,” the representative stated. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park often encountered economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the park to close until the facilities were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.