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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to put down two of its senior lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

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

In a online post, the facility indicated that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

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

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable financial backing,” the director explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the operator stated.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is short and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or ethical option” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were filled with responses from members of the public, pleading for a second chance for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the facility would rethink the plan to end their lives.

The director noted that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also encountered threatening and offensive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for kindness and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the decision to euthanise the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official commented that euthanasia had to be performed compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are assured that the facility continues to meet its animal welfare and security requirements.”

The sanctuary attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park frequently experienced economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the park to shut down until the enclosures were improved. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.