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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled 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 shut down over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

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

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial financial backing,” the director added.

In a recent announcement, the park announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were worsening. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the operator remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and providing for the lions. While the deadline is limited and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were filled with messages from concerned citizens, pleading for a second chance for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the park would review the decision to euthanise them.

The operator stated that among the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also encountered hostile and offensive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We understand that emotions are high, but we request kindness and respect as we handle this heartbreaking predicament.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to put down the cats lay with the owners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A deputy director commented that humane killing had to be performed humanely, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its animal care and security requirements.”

The park gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

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

The facility often encountered monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency instructed the park to close until the facilities were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.