Struggling NZ Wildlife Park Euthanises Two Lions, Fate of Remaining Five Unclear

A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to euthanise two of its older lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

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

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

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are heartbroken,” commented the park’s director.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant financial backing,” the operator explained.

In a subsequent announcement, the facility confirmed 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 untreatable and were declining. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the manager stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in buying the property and providing for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with responses from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The manager stated that among the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to threatening and offensive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we ask for compassion and decency as we manage this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the choice to put down the lions was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A senior official explained that humane killing had to be conducted humanely, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are confident that the facility continues to meet its animal welfare and enclosure requirements.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary often ran into financial trouble and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the park to shut down until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.