Troubled New Zealand Wildlife Park Euthanises Two Lions, Fate of Remaining Five Unclear

A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to put down two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a online announcement, the facility explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant capital investment,” the manager explained.

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

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the manager said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A few individuals have shown interest in acquiring the property and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the deadline is short and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were flooded with responses from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the facility would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The manager noted that alongside the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered threatening and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we request consideration and courtesy as we handle this devastating circumstance.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The government department clarified that the determination to humanely kill the big cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to confirm this is done correctly,” the representative said. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it was shown on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility frequently encountered monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency instructed the establishment to shut down until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.