Financially Stricken NZ Animal Sanctuary Euthanises Pair of Lions, Future of Remaining Five Uncertain
A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.
The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.
In a online update, the facility clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”
“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are devastated,” stated the park’s director.
“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial monetary input,” the director added.
In a recent announcement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.
“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were declining. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the director stated.
However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be euthanised.
“A several interested parties have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is tight and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to investigate this possibility and keep hope alive.”
Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or ethical choice” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.
The facility’s posts were filled with messages from the community, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the park would review the course of action to euthanise them.
The manager mentioned that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and abusive comments.
“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and courtesy as we manage this tragic predicament.”
The landowner refused to comment.
The ministry for primary industries clarified that the choice to put down the big cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.
A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be conducted humanely, and in line with wildlife regulations.
“An compliance official will be onsite to verify this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the facility continues to meet its animal care and security responsibilities.”
The park gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.
However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.
The sanctuary repeatedly encountered financial trouble and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the establishment to shut down until the habitats were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.
