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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a online update, the establishment clarified that its proprietor 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 difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are devastated,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but significant monetary input,” the operator noted.

In a recent announcement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the manager said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the window is limited and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or humane alternative” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were filled with comments from the community, requesting a stay of execution for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the facility would rethink the decision to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that alongside the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We understand that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and decency as we navigate this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The government department clarified that the choice to humanely kill the lions lay with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A deputy director stated that euthanasia had to be performed humanely, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are assured that the establishment continues to meet its animal care and enclosure responsibilities.”

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

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility frequently ran into economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency instructed the facility to close until the enclosures were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.