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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media announcement, the establishment indicated that its proprietor 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 “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are heartbroken,” stated the park’s director.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable capital investment,” the director noted.

In a subsequent announcement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the operator remarked.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to explore this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or humane choice” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were flooded with messages from the community, requesting a second chance for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed hope that the facility would rethink the course of action to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received threatening and insulting messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we navigate this devastating predicament.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the determination to put down the big cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A high-ranking officer explained that humane killing had to be performed ethically, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson stated. “We are assured that the establishment continues to meet its animal welfare and enclosure requirements.”

The facility attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility repeatedly ran into financial trouble and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.