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

A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

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

“There were no real options left. The team and I are heartbroken,” commented the park’s director.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable monetary input,” the director explained.

In a later statement, the park verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the operator remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Although the window is limited and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or humane choice” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with responses from members of the public, begging for a second chance for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed desire that the sanctuary would review the decision to end their lives.

The operator stated that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received menacing and insulting remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we handle this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The government department stated that the decision to euthanise the big cats lay with the owners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A senior official commented that putting down had to be carried out ethically, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to ensure this is done appropriately,” the representative stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The sanctuary attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary repeatedly experienced financial trouble and staffing problems, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency instructed the establishment to cease operations until the enclosures were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.