Struggling NZ Wildlife Park Puts Down Pair of Lions, Fate of Five More Unclear

A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility clarified that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are devastated,” stated the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant capital investment,” the operator explained.

In a subsequent announcement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been put down.

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

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is short and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to pursue this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

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

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, pleading for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would rethink the course of action to euthanise them.

The manager noted that among the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and abusive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we appeal for kindness and respect as we manage this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the choice to humanely kill the big cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A high-ranking officer explained that euthanasia had to be performed compassionately, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done properly,” the official noted. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal care and containment requirements.”

The facility achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary frequently experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to shut down until the facilities were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.