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

A financially troubled 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 undecided, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a social media update, the establishment explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” stated the park’s director.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable monetary input,” the manager added.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the operator stated.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is short and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or humane option” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by messages from the community, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would rethink the course of action to euthanise them.

The director noted that amid the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also encountered threatening and insulting remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we request consideration and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking predicament.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the determination to euthanise the big cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A senior official explained that putting down had to be carried out humanely, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson said. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and enclosure obligations.”

The facility attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

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

The facility repeatedly encountered economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the park to cease operations until the enclosures were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.