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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to put down two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a online 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 euthanised “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial capital investment,” the operator explained.

In a later announcement, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the director 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 buying the facility and providing for the lions. Even though the window is short and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to explore this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

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

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from members of the public, pleading for a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The director noted that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and insulting comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We understand that passions are strong, but we request kindness and decency as we navigate this tragic situation.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the determination to euthanise the lions lay with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A high-ranking officer stated that humane killing had to be carried out compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to meet its wildlife protection and containment obligations.”

The sanctuary gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the establishment to close until the habitats were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.