Struggling NZ Wildlife Park Puts Down Pair of Lions, Future of Remaining Five Uncertain

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

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

In a online post, the establishment explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable monetary input,” the manager explained.

In a later announcement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the director stated.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and providing for the lions. Even though the timeframe is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or compassionate option” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were flooded with responses from concerned citizens, begging for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the facility would rethink the course of action to put them down.

The manager mentioned that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and abusive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we request consideration and respect as we handle this devastating circumstance.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department stated that the decision to humanely kill the big cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A deputy director stated that euthanasia had to be conducted humanely, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The park attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it appeared on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the establishment to close until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.