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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

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

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable financial backing,” the director explained.

In a recent update, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

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

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in acquiring the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Although the window is short and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to investigate this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or ethical alternative” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with comments from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the course of action to end their lives.

The manager noted that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and offensive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We understand that passions are strong, but we request compassion and respect as we manage this devastating predicament.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the decision to put down the big cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A deputy director stated that humane killing had to be conducted ethically, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be onsite to verify this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are assured that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal care and containment obligations.”

The park gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility frequently experienced economic issues and employment issues, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the government agency instructed the facility to shut down until the habitats were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.