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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a online post, 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 euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” stated the park’s director.

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but significant capital investment,” the director explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the director stated.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with responses from members of the public, pleading for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the facility would review the plan to end their lives.

The operator mentioned that alongside the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we navigate this devastating predicament.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The government department stated that the determination to put down the big cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A deputy director stated that euthanasia had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be on location to ensure this is done correctly,” the representative noted. “We are confident that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and enclosure responsibilities.”

The sanctuary achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary repeatedly encountered financial trouble and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the park to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.