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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to put down two of its older lions, with the fate of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online announcement, the establishment clarified that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable financial backing,” the operator added.

In a recent statement, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were declining. These actions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the manager remarked.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. While the window is short and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or ethical alternative” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were flooded with messages from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The director stated that among the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered hostile and offensive comments.

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

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department clarified that the choice to humanely kill the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer explained that euthanasia had to be conducted humanely, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to verify this is done properly,” the representative noted. “We are assured that the facility continues to meet its wildlife protection and enclosure requirements.”

The facility gained minor fame 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 killed by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility repeatedly experienced financial trouble and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the establishment to shut down until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.