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

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

In a social media announcement, the facility indicated that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are heartbroken,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable monetary input,” the director explained.

In a recent statement, the facility announced 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 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 other five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the property and continuing to care for the lions. Although the window is short and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or compassionate choice” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were flooded with comments from members of the public, pleading for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the park would rethink the course of action to end their lives.

The operator mentioned that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and offensive messages.

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

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body clarified that the determination to euthanise the cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be on location to ensure this is done correctly,” the representative said. “We are assured that the establishment continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and containment obligations.”

The facility attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility repeatedly ran into financial trouble and employment issues, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the government agency instructed the park to shut down until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.