🔗 Share this article

A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the fate of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media announcement, the facility clarified 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 “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” said the facility’s manager.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable capital investment,” the operator noted.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were worsening. These decisions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the director stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the facility and maintaining care for the lions. While the window is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to explore this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or compassionate alternative” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were filled with responses from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the sanctuary would review the decision to euthanise them.

The operator noted that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and insulting remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we appeal for consideration and respect as we manage this devastating circumstance.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the determination to humanely kill the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A deputy director commented that humane killing had to be carried out ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be present to confirm this is done correctly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are confident that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment requirements.”

The park attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it was shown on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

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

The facility often experienced economic issues and employment issues, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to close until the habitats were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.