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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to euthanise two of its older lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

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

“There were no real options left. The team and I are devastated,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable monetary input,” the operator added.

In a later statement, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in purchasing the property and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is short and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to investigate this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would rethink the decision to put them down.

The director noted that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the determination to put down the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A deputy director explained that putting down had to be conducted ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to verify this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are assured that the establishment continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and containment obligations.”

The sanctuary achieved minor fame in the early part of the century when it was shown on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park repeatedly ran into monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.