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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to put down two of its older lions, with the fate of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility 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 difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

“While it could potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant monetary input,” the manager noted.

In a subsequent statement, the park announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator stated.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the deadline is tight and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to explore this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or ethical alternative” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were flooded with comments from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the course of action to euthanise them.

The operator mentioned that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and insulting messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for kindness and respect as we handle this devastating situation.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the determination to humanely kill the big cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A senior official commented that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and containment responsibilities.”

The park gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

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

The park frequently experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the park to cease operations until the enclosures were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.