Financially Stricken NZ Wildlife Park Puts Down Two Lions, Future of Remaining Five Unclear

A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a online update, the establishment clarified 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 euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant financial backing,” the operator noted.

In a later statement, the sanctuary 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 not treatable and were declining. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator said.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in acquiring the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Although the window is short and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and keep hope alive.”

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

The park’s announcements were flooded with responses from the community, begging for a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the facility would review the plan to end their lives.

The manager stated that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and offensive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that emotions are high, but we request consideration and courtesy as we manage this devastating circumstance.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the choice to euthanise the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be carried out humanely, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson said. “We are assured that the operation continues to meet its wildlife protection and containment obligations.”

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

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The facility frequently experienced financial trouble and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to shut down until the facilities were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.