Financially Stricken NZ Wildlife Park Euthanises Two Lions, Fate of Five More Uncertain
A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.
The private wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.
In a online post, the establishment clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”
“There were no real options left. The team and I are deeply saddened,” said the sanctuary’s operator.
“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant financial backing,” the director explained.
In a later announcement, the facility announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.
“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the manager said.
However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be humanely killed.
“A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and providing for the lions. While the deadline is short and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”
Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or humane alternative” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.
The facility’s posts were flooded with comments from members of the public, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the facility would review the plan to end their lives.
The director noted that amid the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered hostile and insulting remarks.
“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and courtesy as we navigate this devastating circumstance.”
The property owner refused to comment.
The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to put down the big cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the intention.
A deputy director stated that humane killing had to be conducted ethically, and in line with animal welfare law.
“An regulatory officer will be on location to confirm this is done properly,” the official noted. “We are assured that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”
The facility attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.
However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.
The facility often ran into financial trouble and employment issues, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the park to close until the facilities were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.
