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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the outcome 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 post, the facility explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial financial backing,” the director added.

In a later announcement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were worsening. These choices were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the director said.

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

“A handful of parties have shown 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 explore this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or compassionate option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by comments from the community, requesting a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the sanctuary would review the plan to put them down.

The manager stated that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to threatening and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for compassion and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking predicament.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the choice to put down the lions lay with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A deputy director commented that putting down had to be carried out humanely, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are confident that the facility continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure responsibilities.”

The park achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program 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 facility often ran into financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to close until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.