Financially Stricken New Zealand Wildlife Park Puts Down Two Lions, Fate of Five More Uncertain

A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to put down two of its senior lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

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

In a online post, the establishment explained 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 tough decision made by the property owner.”

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

“While it could potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable monetary input,” the operator explained.

In a later announcement, the facility verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were declining. These choices were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the director said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in buying the establishment and providing for the lions. Although the window is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or compassionate alternative” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from the community, requesting a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the facility would review the decision to euthanise them.

The manager stated that alongside the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also received menacing and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we appeal for kindness and decency as we navigate this tragic predicament.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body clarified that the determination to put down the big cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A high-ranking officer explained that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to confirm this is done correctly,” the official noted. “We are confident that the facility continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment requirements.”

The sanctuary gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary often experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the facility to close until the enclosures were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.