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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to put down two of its senior lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online announcement, the facility clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are heartbroken,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial financial backing,” the operator noted.

In a subsequent statement, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the window is limited and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or humane option” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were flooded with messages from the community, requesting a reprieve for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the park would review the course of action to euthanise them.

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

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The government department clarified that the decision to humanely kill the lions was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A senior official commented that putting down had to be conducted humanely, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the official noted. “We are assured that the establishment continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility often experienced financial trouble and staffing problems, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.