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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to euthanise two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a social media post, the facility indicated that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable capital investment,” the director explained.

In a subsequent statement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have expressed interest in buying the property and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the window is short and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to explore this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or compassionate choice” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were flooded with responses from the community, pleading for a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would review the course of action to euthanise them.

The manager stated that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to menacing and insulting comments.

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

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the determination to euthanise the lions lay with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A deputy director explained that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and security obligations.”

The facility attained minor fame in the early part of the century when it featured on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly experienced financial trouble and employment issues, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the establishment to close until the habitats were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.