🔗 Share this article

A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a online update, the establishment indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable monetary input,” the director noted.

In a later statement, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were declining. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the operator said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. Even though the timeframe is short and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or ethical option” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from the community, requesting a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the facility would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that amid the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered threatening and abusive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and respect as we navigate this heartbreaking predicament.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the decision to humanely kill the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A deputy director commented that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be onsite to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to meet its animal care and containment responsibilities.”

The park attained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it appeared on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary repeatedly ran into financial trouble and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency ordered the park to close until the enclosures were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.