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

A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a online announcement, the establishment explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are heartbroken,” commented the park’s director.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant financial backing,” the manager noted.

In a later update, the park verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the director stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have shown interest in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or compassionate alternative” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by comments from the community, begging for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the sanctuary would rethink the decision to euthanise them.

The operator noted that amid the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and abusive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we request compassion and respect as we handle this devastating situation.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The government department clarified that the decision to put down the lions lay with the owners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A deputy director commented that humane killing had to be performed ethically, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson said. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and security requirements.”

The facility attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility frequently ran into monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the facility to cease operations until the enclosures were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.