Troubled New Zealand Wildlife Park Euthanises Pair of Lions, Fate of Remaining Five Uncertain

A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a online announcement, the facility explained that its owner had listed the land 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.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are devastated,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial financial backing,” the director explained.

In a recent statement, the park announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were worsening. These choices were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the operator said.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the property and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the deadline is short and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or compassionate option” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were filled with responses from the community, requesting a stay of execution for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The director noted that among the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to menacing and insulting remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we appeal for kindness and courtesy as we manage this devastating situation.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the determination to put down the lions was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A deputy director stated that euthanasia had to be conducted ethically, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson noted. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and containment requirements.”

The facility achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park often ran into financial trouble and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the establishment to shut down until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.