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

A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a online post, the establishment clarified that its owner 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 challenging decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant monetary input,” the operator explained.

In a recent update, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were declining. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the director said.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in buying the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is limited and the situation remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or humane choice” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed hope that the sanctuary would rethink the course of action to end their lives.

The director noted that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we appeal for consideration and courtesy as we handle this devastating circumstance.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the determination to put down the lions lay with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A senior official explained that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are confident that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The sanctuary attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park often encountered economic issues and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.