Struggling New Zealand Wildlife Park Euthanises Two Lions, Future of Remaining Five Unclear

A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media update, the establishment explained that its proprietor had put the property 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 property owner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial financial backing,” the manager noted.

In a recent statement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the director said.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and providing for the lions. While the deadline is limited and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to investigate this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or humane alternative” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, pleading for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the facility would reconsider the plan to end their lives.

The director stated that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we request kindness and courtesy as we navigate this tragic situation.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the choice to put down the cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A senior official stated that humane killing had to be conducted ethically, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done properly,” the spokesperson said. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to meet its wildlife protection and security responsibilities.”

The park attained minor fame in the early part of the century when it was shown on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary repeatedly experienced financial trouble and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the park to shut down until the enclosures were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.