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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife sanctuary 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 euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are devastated,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant financial backing,” the director explained.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were declining. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the director said.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in buying the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is tight and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or compassionate alternative” due to their age, the quantity of animals 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 decision to end their lives.

The manager mentioned that among the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to threatening and insulting remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we manage this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The government department stated that the decision to euthanise the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A high-ranking officer stated that humane killing had to be performed humanely, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to confirm this is done appropriately,” the representative stated. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to meet its animal welfare and containment obligations.”

The park achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary often ran into financial trouble and staffing problems, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the government agency ordered the establishment to close until the enclosures were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.