🔗 Share this article

A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to put down two of its older lions, with the fate of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online update, the facility explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” said the facility’s manager.

“While it could potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial monetary input,” the operator explained.

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

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the director remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. While the window is tight and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or humane option” due to their age, 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 surviving lions, while past workers expressed hope that the park would rethink the course of action to euthanise them.

The director noted that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we appeal for kindness and decency as we handle this heartbreaking predicament.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to put down the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be performed humanely, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the official stated. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its animal care and containment requirements.”

The facility achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The facility frequently experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the facility to cease operations until the enclosures were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.