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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

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

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are devastated,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable financial backing,” the manager noted.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the operator said.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in buying the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is limited and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to explore this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or humane choice” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from the community, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would review the plan to put them down.

The manager stated that among the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we request compassion and courtesy as we manage this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the choice to put down the cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A high-ranking officer stated that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in line with wildlife regulations.

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

The sanctuary achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park often ran into monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the park to cease operations until the habitats were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.