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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a social media update, the establishment explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable financial backing,” the director noted.

In a subsequent update, the facility verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to pursue this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or ethical option” due to their age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from members of the public, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed desire that the facility would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The operator noted that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that passions are strong, but we ask for compassion and courtesy as we navigate this devastating circumstance.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the choice to euthanise the big cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A senior official commented that humane killing had to be carried out humanely, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and containment responsibilities.”

The sanctuary achieved some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park often experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the government agency ordered the establishment to close until the enclosures were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.