Struggling New Zealand Wildlife Park Puts Down Pair of Lions, Fate of Remaining Five Uncertain

A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to put down two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial monetary input,” the manager noted.

In a subsequent announcement, the facility 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 decisions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the director stated.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and providing for the lions. While the window is short and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or ethical choice” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, begging for a second chance for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to end their lives.

The manager noted that alongside the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered menacing and offensive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we ask for kindness and respect as we navigate this devastating situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The government department stated that the choice to put down the lions rested with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A high-ranking officer commented that putting down had to be conducted humanely, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are confident that the facility continues to meet its wildlife protection and security obligations.”

The park attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility frequently ran into economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency instructed the facility to shut down until the enclosures were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.