Struggling New Zealand Animal Sanctuary Puts Down Two Lions, Fate of Five More Uncertain

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

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a online update, the facility indicated that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are deeply saddened,” commented the park’s director.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but significant monetary input,” the operator explained.

In a later announcement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were declining. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the manager said.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in purchasing the facility and providing for the lions. While the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and keep hope alive.”

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 park’s announcements were filled with responses from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the park would rethink the course of action to euthanise them.

The manager mentioned that amid the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and offensive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We understand that emotions are high, but we appeal for kindness and courtesy as we handle this devastating predicament.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to humanely kill the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A deputy director commented that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson said. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and security requirements.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

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

The sanctuary often encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the park to shut down until the enclosures were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.