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

A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a online announcement, the facility indicated that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are devastated,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable capital investment,” the manager added.

In a recent statement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“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 thoughtfulness,” the manager stated.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the property and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is short and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or humane alternative” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with messages from members of the public, requesting a reprieve for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The operator stated that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and offensive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we request compassion and respect as we navigate this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the decision to humanely kill the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A senior official explained that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson said. “We are assured that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The park attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park frequently ran into financial trouble and employment issues, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the establishment to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.