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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 outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility clarified that its proprietor 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 tough decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are heartbroken,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable monetary input,” the manager added.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were declining. These actions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the manager said.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or compassionate option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The director stated that alongside the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and abusive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and respect as we handle this devastating circumstance.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the determination to euthanise the big cats lay with the owners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A high-ranking officer explained that putting down had to be performed humanely, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and containment obligations.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary frequently encountered financial trouble and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency ordered the facility to shut down until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.