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

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility explained that its proprietor 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 “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” said the facility’s manager.

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable financial backing,” the director explained.

In a recent announcement, the park verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the director stated.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in acquiring the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. While the window is tight and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or humane choice” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were filled with messages from the community, pleading for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the sanctuary would rethink the course of action to euthanise them.

The director noted that among the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to menacing and abusive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we appeal for kindness and respect as we navigate this heartbreaking predicament.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to euthanise the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A senior official stated that humane killing had to be conducted ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson noted. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its animal care and containment requirements.”

The park attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility often experienced financial trouble and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to close until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.