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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a online announcement, the establishment explained that its proprietor 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 tough decision made by the property owner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but significant monetary input,” the manager explained.

In a recent update, the park verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the director said.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the establishment and providing for the lions. While the window is limited and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing all we can to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were flooded with responses from the community, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the facility would rethink the course of action to put them down.

The operator stated that among the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to threatening and offensive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we appeal for consideration and respect as we navigate this devastating situation.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the choice to euthanise the big cats rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A high-ranking officer commented that putting down had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to confirm this is done appropriately,” the representative said. “We are confident that the operation continues to meet its animal care and containment requirements.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary often experienced economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency ordered the facility to shut down until the enclosures were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.