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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a online announcement, the establishment explained 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 challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are heartbroken,” commented the park’s director.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial monetary input,” the operator noted.

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

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were worsening. These actions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the operator said.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the property and continuing to care for the lions. While the deadline is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to explore this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with messages from the community, begging for a second chance for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the facility would review the plan to end their lives.

The director stated that among the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also received threatening and abusive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we appeal for kindness and decency as we handle this devastating situation.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The regulatory body clarified that the choice to euthanise the cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A senior official explained that euthanasia had to be conducted humanely, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to verify this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to meet its wildlife protection and enclosure responsibilities.”

The sanctuary gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park repeatedly experienced monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the park to close until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.