Troubled New Zealand Wildlife Park Puts Down Two Lions, Fate of Remaining Five Uncertain

A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a online post, the facility 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 put down “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are deeply saddened,” said the facility’s manager.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant financial backing,” the operator noted.

In a later announcement, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator said.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. Although the window is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to explore this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or compassionate option” due to their age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from members of the public, pleading for a second chance for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The operator stated that amid the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we ask for compassion and decency as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the determination to euthanise the cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer stated that euthanasia had to be performed compassionately, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson said. “We are confident that the establishment continues to meet its animal welfare and enclosure responsibilities.”

The sanctuary gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility frequently encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the facility to cease operations until the habitats were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.