🔗 Share this article

A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a social media update, the establishment explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable capital investment,” the director noted.

In a recent update, the park announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and maintaining care for the lions. While the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or humane option” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with messages from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the park would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The manager noted that among the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and offensive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we request consideration and respect as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The government department clarified that the decision to put down the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that putting down had to be conducted ethically, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment requirements.”

The park achieved minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park frequently ran into monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the establishment to shut down until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.