Struggling New Zealand Animal Sanctuary Euthanises Pair of Lions, Fate of Five More Unclear

A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the fate of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a social media update, the establishment indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial financial backing,” the director noted.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the operator remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the facility and providing for the lions. Although the timeframe is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or compassionate choice” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with responses from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed desire that the park would review the course of action to end their lives.

The manager mentioned that among the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to threatening and abusive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we request kindness and courtesy as we handle this devastating situation.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body clarified that the determination to put down the lions lay with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be carried out compassionately, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

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

The park gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly ran into monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the establishment to cease operations until the enclosures were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.