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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to euthanise two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a online post, the facility explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” commented the park’s director.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant monetary input,” the operator noted.

In a recent update, the facility announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the manager said.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and providing for the lions. Even though the timeframe is tight and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or compassionate choice” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, pleading for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed desire that the park would review the course of action to euthanise them.

The manager noted that among the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and abusive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We understand that passions are strong, but we request consideration and decency as we manage this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to put down the big cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official commented that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the representative noted. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and enclosure obligations.”

The sanctuary gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility often ran into monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the park to cease operations until the enclosures were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.