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

A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to put down two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a social media post, 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 “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are heartbroken,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial capital investment,” the director explained.

In a subsequent statement, the park announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the manager said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be put down.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and continuing to care for the lions. Although the deadline is limited and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or humane option” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with messages from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the sanctuary would review the course of action to euthanise them.

The operator stated that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also received threatening and abusive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we request kindness and decency as we manage this devastating predicament.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the determination to humanely kill the cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A deputy director explained that humane killing had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are confident that the facility continues to meet its wildlife protection and containment requirements.”

The facility attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park often experienced economic issues and staffing problems, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the park to shut down until the enclosures were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.