🔗 Share this article

A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a online post, the establishment 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 “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

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

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

In a recent update, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. Although the timeframe is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to investigate this possibility and keep hope alive.”

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

The park’s announcements were flooded with messages from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the course of action to euthanise them.

The manager noted that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and courtesy as we manage this devastating situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the determination to put down the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be performed humanely, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to ensure this is done properly,” the representative stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and enclosure responsibilities.”

The facility attained minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility repeatedly experienced monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the facility to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.