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

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

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

In a online post, the establishment explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are heartbroken,” stated the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial monetary input,” the manager added.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were declining. These decisions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the operator said.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in acquiring the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. While the deadline is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to investigate this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or humane choice” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with messages from the community, requesting a stay of execution for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the course of action to end their lives.

The operator noted that alongside the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to hostile and offensive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the determination to euthanise the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A senior official explained that euthanasia had to be performed humanely, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to meet its animal welfare and enclosure requirements.”

The park gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary repeatedly encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the facility to close until the facilities were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.