Struggling New Zealand Wildlife Park Euthanises Pair of Lions, Fate of Five More Uncertain

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

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

In a online update, the facility clarified that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“While it could potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable financial backing,” the director noted.

In a recent announcement, the park announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were worsening. These decisions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. Although the window is limited and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or humane option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The operator stated that among the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to menacing and insulting remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we request kindness and respect as we manage this tragic situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the choice to euthanise the big cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

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

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to verify this is done properly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are confident that the establishment continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and security responsibilities.”

The facility attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park often encountered economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the facility to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.