Financially Stricken NZ Wildlife Park Puts Down Pair of Lions, Future of Remaining Five Unclear

A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online update, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are devastated,” commented the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable financial backing,” the operator added.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the director remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in acquiring the property and providing for the lions. Even though the window is tight and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or humane choice” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were flooded with responses from members of the public, pleading for a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the course of action to end their lives.

The operator stated that among the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered hostile and insulting comments.

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

The landowner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the determination to euthanise the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A deputy director explained that putting down had to be carried out humanely, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the representative stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and containment obligations.”

The sanctuary achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park often experienced monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency instructed the facility to close until the enclosures were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.