🔗 Share this article

A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to put down two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

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

In a online update, the facility clarified that its proprietor had put the property 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 team and I are deeply saddened,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but significant capital investment,” the operator noted.

In a subsequent update, the park 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 not treatable and were declining. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the manager stated.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in buying the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the window is limited and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or humane alternative” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from the community, begging for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the sanctuary would review the plan to put them down.

The operator noted that alongside the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered menacing and offensive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We understand that passions are strong, but we appeal for kindness and decency as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The government department stated that the decision to euthanise the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be conducted ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be on location to verify this is done properly,” the representative stated. “We are assured that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal care and security responsibilities.”

The facility achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility often encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to shut down until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.