A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to euthanise two of its older lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.
The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.
In a social media post, the establishment indicated that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”
“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are devastated,” said the sanctuary’s operator.
“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial financial backing,” the operator added.
In a later update, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.
“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were declining. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator remarked.
However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be euthanised.
“A handful of parties have shown interest in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the deadline is short and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”
Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or compassionate alternative” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.
The park’s announcements were filled with responses from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while past workers expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to end their lives.
The manager stated that alongside the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and abusive comments.
“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we navigate this tragic predicament.”
The proprietor refused to comment.
The government department clarified that the determination to put down the lions was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the intention.
A senior official stated that humane killing had to be carried out compassionately, and in line with animal welfare law.
“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to verify this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are confident that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and security requirements.”
The sanctuary gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.
However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.
The park repeatedly experienced monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.
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