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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to put down two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment indicated that its owner had listed the land 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.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are devastated,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial capital investment,” the manager added.

In a recent statement, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were declining. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the manager remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in buying the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. While the deadline is short and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or humane alternative” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were flooded with responses from members of the public, begging for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would review the course of action to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we appeal for consideration and decency as we manage this heartbreaking predicament.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the determination to humanely kill the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be performed humanely, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to verify this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its animal care and security responsibilities.”

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

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly ran into monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to close until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.