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

A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media announcement, the establishment indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are deeply saddened,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable financial backing,” the director noted.

In a recent update, the park verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the operator stated.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. While the window is short and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from members of the public, requesting a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would review the decision to put them down.

The director stated that amid the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and abusive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we request consideration and respect as we navigate this heartbreaking predicament.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the choice to humanely kill the big cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A high-ranking officer explained that putting down had to be carried out ethically, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to confirm this is done properly,” the spokesperson said. “We are confident that the facility continues to satisfy its animal welfare and enclosure responsibilities.”

The park achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility repeatedly experienced monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency directed the facility to shut down until the enclosures were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.