Struggling New Zealand Wildlife Park Euthanises Two Lions, Future of Five More Unclear

A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to euthanise two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a online post, the facility indicated 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.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are devastated,” said the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable financial backing,” the director explained.

In a later statement, the sanctuary 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 declining. These choices were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the operator said.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is short and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or ethical alternative” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were filled with responses from members of the public, pleading for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The manager noted that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and insulting remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to humanely kill the lions was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A senior official stated that putting down had to be carried out humanely, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to confirm this is done properly,” the spokesperson said. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to meet its animal welfare and containment requirements.”

The facility gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

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

The sanctuary often encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to cease operations until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.