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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to put down two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online announcement, the facility explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but significant monetary input,” the director added.

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

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to investigate this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or ethical option” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the park would review the plan to put them down.

The operator mentioned that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we request consideration and decency as we navigate this devastating situation.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the determination to euthanise the lions was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

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

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are confident that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure responsibilities.”

The park achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility frequently ran into financial trouble and staffing problems, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to close until the habitats were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.