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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to put down two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a social media post, the facility explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial capital investment,” the director noted.

In a later statement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the director said.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the property and continuing to care for the lions. Although the window is limited and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing all we can to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or humane choice” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed desire that the sanctuary would rethink the plan to end their lives.

The manager mentioned that alongside the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered hostile and offensive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we request consideration and respect as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The government department indicated that the decision to euthanise the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A deputy director stated that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and enclosure requirements.”

The sanctuary achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The facility often ran into financial trouble and staffing problems, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.