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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the fate of the other five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, 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 “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are heartbroken,” stated the park’s director.

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial capital investment,” the manager added.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were declining. These actions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the operator stated.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in buying the facility and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is tight and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to explore this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or ethical option” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from members of the public, begging for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed hope that the facility would rethink the course of action to euthanise them.

The director stated that among the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered hostile and abusive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We understand that emotions are high, but we ask for compassion and respect as we manage this tragic predicament.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the determination to humanely kill the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director explained that putting down had to be performed humanely, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson noted. “We are confident that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment requirements.”

The park achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park often encountered economic issues and staffing problems, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency instructed the facility to close until the enclosures were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.