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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a social media update, the facility clarified 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 put down “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are devastated,” said the park’s director.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but significant financial backing,” the director explained.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were declining. These choices were made with deep care and consideration,” the director remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is limited and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or compassionate choice” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were filled with comments from the community, pleading for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would rethink the decision to put them down.

The director mentioned that among the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and insulting remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we request kindness and decency as we manage this devastating predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the decision to put down the lions lay with the owners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A high-ranking officer explained that humane killing had to be conducted humanely, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to verify this is done correctly,” the representative stated. “We are confident that the operation continues to fulfill its animal welfare and enclosure obligations.”

The park gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently ran into financial trouble and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the facility to close until the habitats were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.