A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to put down two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.
The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.
In a social media update, the facility clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”
“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are heartbroken,” said the park’s director.
“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial financial backing,” the manager explained.
In a later announcement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.
“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the operator remarked.
However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be humanely killed.
“A handful of parties have expressed interest in buying the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is limited and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”
Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or humane alternative” due to their age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.
The park’s announcements were filled with messages from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the park would reconsider the plan to end their lives.
The director mentioned that alongside the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered menacing and offensive remarks.
“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we request compassion and decency as we manage this tragic situation.”
The proprietor declined to comment.
The government department clarified that the determination to humanely kill the lions lay with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the intention.
A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be carried out ethically, and in line with animal welfare law.
“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the operation continues to meet its animal welfare and security requirements.”
The park gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it was shown on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.
However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while performing maintenance.
The park frequently ran into economic issues and staffing problems, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.
Elena Hartwell is a multidisciplinary artist and educator passionate about fostering creative communities in London.