🔗 Share this article

A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a online announcement, the facility indicated 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 “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are heartbroken,” said the park’s director.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but significant capital investment,” the manager added.

In a subsequent update, the facility verified 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 not treatable and were worsening. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is tight and the situation remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to investigate this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with comments from members of the public, pleading for a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the facility would review the course of action to put them down.

The operator stated that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and decency as we navigate this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the determination to put down the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

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

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure requirements.”

The facility attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility often experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the park to shut down until the enclosures were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.