🔗 Share this article

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

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

In a online update, the facility indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are heartbroken,” commented the facility’s manager.

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial financial backing,” the manager explained.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the director stated.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in purchasing the property and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the deadline is short and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were filled with messages from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would review the plan to put them down.

The manager mentioned that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also encountered threatening and offensive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and decency as we manage this heartbreaking predicament.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the determination to humanely kill the big cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be carried out compassionately, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done properly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are assured that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal care and enclosure requirements.”

The facility achieved some recognition in the early part of the century when it was shown on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park often encountered economic issues and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the establishment to close until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.