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

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media post, the facility explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 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 staff and I are devastated,” stated the park’s director.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable financial backing,” the operator noted.

In a subsequent update, the facility announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were declining. These choices were made with deep care and consideration,” the manager remarked.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is tight and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to explore this possibility and hold onto hope.”

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 sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by messages from the community, pleading for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the facility would rethink the plan to end their lives.

The director noted that amid the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and offensive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we appeal for kindness and respect as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to euthanise the big cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A deputy director commented that humane killing had to be conducted ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to verify this is done appropriately,” the representative said. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and security responsibilities.”

The facility gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park frequently encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to shut down until the facilities were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.