Financially Stricken NZ Wildlife Park Euthanises Pair of Lions, Future of Remaining Five Unclear

A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to put down two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a social media update, the facility clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are deeply saddened,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial monetary input,” the director explained.

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

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the director said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the property and providing for the lions. Although the window is limited and the situation remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or ethical alternative” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, begging for a second chance for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed desire that the park would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The director mentioned that among the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and offensive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body clarified that the choice to euthanise the big cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A deputy director explained that putting down had to be performed compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and enclosure responsibilities.”

The facility attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park often ran into financial trouble and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency instructed the park to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.