🔗 Share this article

A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to put down two of its older lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a online post, the facility explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are devastated,” said the facility’s manager.

“While it could potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant monetary input,” the director explained.

In a later statement, the facility announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the operator remarked.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in acquiring the establishment and providing for the lions. Although the window is limited and the situation remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from the community, requesting a reprieve for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the plan to end their lives.

The operator noted that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and abusive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we request consideration and courtesy as we navigate this tragic situation.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to euthanise the lions was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A deputy director commented that humane killing had to be carried out humanely, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and containment requirements.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary frequently encountered economic issues and staffing problems, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the park to shut down until the facilities were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.