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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media update, the facility indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are devastated,” commented the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable capital investment,” the operator explained.

In a subsequent statement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were worsening. These choices were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the manager said.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in acquiring the establishment and providing for the lions. While the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to explore this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, begging for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed hope that the park would review the course of action to put them down.

The director noted that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and insulting comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We understand that emotions are high, but we request consideration and respect as we navigate this devastating circumstance.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to euthanise the big cats rested with the owners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A senior official stated that putting down had to be carried out ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are confident that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The park attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park repeatedly encountered economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to close until the habitats were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.