🔗 Share this article

A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a online announcement, the facility clarified 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 staff and I are deeply saddened,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable financial backing,” the manager noted.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the manager stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in acquiring the property and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is tight and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or humane option” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were flooded with responses from the community, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The director stated that among the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered threatening and insulting messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we appeal for consideration and respect as we manage this tragic predicament.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The government department stated that the determination to put down the lions lay with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A deputy director explained that humane killing had to be carried out compassionately, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to confirm this is done correctly,” the representative stated. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and enclosure requirements.”

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

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the facility to shut down until the facilities were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.