🔗 Share this article

A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a social media post, the establishment explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are heartbroken,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial capital investment,” the director explained.

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

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the manager stated.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be put down.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in acquiring the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

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

The park’s announcements were flooded with comments from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the sanctuary would rethink the course of action to end their lives.

The manager mentioned that among the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking situation.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The government department stated that the decision to euthanise the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A deputy director explained that putting down had to be carried out ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the official said. “We are confident that the establishment continues to meet its wildlife protection and enclosure responsibilities.”

The park achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park frequently encountered economic issues and employment issues, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the park to shut down until the facilities were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.