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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media announcement, the establishment explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial capital investment,” the manager noted.

In a later announcement, the park verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the operator remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is short and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to investigate this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or compassionate choice” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with messages from the community, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed hope that the facility would reconsider the plan to end their lives.

The director noted that alongside the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to hostile and abusive remarks.

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

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The government department indicated that the choice to euthanise the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director stated that humane killing had to be performed humanely, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to verify this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson stated. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and containment responsibilities.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park frequently experienced economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the park to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.