Struggling NZ Wildlife Park Euthanises Pair of Lions, Fate of Five More Uncertain

A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a social media update, the establishment clarified that its owner 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 challenging decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant capital investment,” the manager noted.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the director said.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in buying the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the window is tight and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or humane option” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were flooded with responses from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the other big cats, while past workers expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The director mentioned that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and offensive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we request consideration and decency as we navigate this devastating predicament.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The government department stated that the choice to put down the lions was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A deputy director explained that putting down had to be conducted humanely, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and security requirements.”

The sanctuary gained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park repeatedly experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency instructed the park to close until the habitats were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.