Financially Stricken NZ Wildlife Park Euthanises Pair of Lions, Future of Five More Uncertain

A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media post, the facility clarified 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 challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff 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 purchase of the property but considerable capital investment,” the manager added.

In a subsequent statement, the sanctuary 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 deteriorating. These actions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the manager said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is limited and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or compassionate alternative” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were filled with comments from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The manager stated that amid the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We understand that passions are strong, but we request kindness and decency as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The government department clarified that the decision to put down the cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A high-ranking officer stated that humane killing had to be carried out humanely, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson said. “We are assured that the facility continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and enclosure obligations.”

The facility attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility repeatedly experienced financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the establishment to close until the habitats were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.