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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to put down two of its senior lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online update, the facility indicated that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but significant monetary input,” the operator noted.

In a recent update, the sanctuary confirmed 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 untreatable and were worsening. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the director said.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in buying the property and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or humane choice” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were filled with comments from members of the public, pleading for a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the course of action to end their lives.

The operator noted that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and offensive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the determination to put down the big cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A high-ranking officer commented that putting down had to be conducted ethically, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the representative said. “We are assured that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal care and containment requirements.”

The sanctuary achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park frequently ran into financial trouble and staffing problems, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the park to close until the habitats were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.