Troubled NZ Wildlife Park Puts Down Two Lions, Fate of Five More Uncertain

A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a online announcement, the establishment indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial capital investment,” the manager explained.

In a later announcement, the park verified 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 incurable and were declining. These choices were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in acquiring the establishment and providing for the lions. Although the window is limited and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to investigate this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or compassionate alternative” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by comments from the community, pleading for a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the park would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The director stated that amid the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered menacing and offensive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we appeal for consideration and respect as we manage this devastating predicament.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to put down the big cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A high-ranking officer stated that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done properly,” the official stated. “We are confident that the operation continues to meet its animal care and containment requirements.”

The facility achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park frequently encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.