Troubled NZ Wildlife Park Euthanises Two Lions, Fate of Five More Unclear

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

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

In a online announcement, the facility clarified that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are heartbroken,” stated the facility’s manager.

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

In a subsequent update, the park verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with deep care and deliberation,” the manager stated.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in buying the establishment and providing for the lions. Although the window is tight and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to explore this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or humane alternative” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, begging for a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The manager stated that amid the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also received menacing and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and decency as we manage this devastating circumstance.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the determination to humanely kill the lions lay with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A deputy director stated that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be present to confirm this is done properly,” the representative noted. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment obligations.”

The park attained minor fame in the early part of the century when it was shown on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park frequently encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the facility to shut down until the facilities were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.