🔗 Share this article

A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media update, the facility explained that its owner had put the property 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 property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” said the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial financial backing,” the operator noted.

In a subsequent update, the facility announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were declining. These choices were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the director stated.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in buying the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the deadline is limited and the situation remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to investigate this option and keep hope alive.”

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

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, pleading for a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the course of action to put them down.

The director noted that among the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and abusive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We understand that passions are strong, but we ask for kindness and courtesy as we handle this devastating situation.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the determination to put down the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A high-ranking officer stated that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be on location to confirm this is done correctly,” the representative stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and security obligations.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility repeatedly experienced economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to close until the facilities were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.