🔗 Share this article

A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to put down two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are heartbroken,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial financial backing,” the operator added.

In a subsequent announcement, the park announced 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 declining. These decisions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the director stated.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in purchasing the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the deadline is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to investigate this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or ethical alternative” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from the community, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The operator noted that amid the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we ask for compassion and courtesy as we navigate this devastating circumstance.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the determination to euthanise the lions lay with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the plan.

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

“An compliance official will be on location to confirm this is done correctly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and enclosure requirements.”

The facility attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park often ran into financial trouble and staffing problems, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the park to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.