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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media update, the facility explained 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 “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but significant capital investment,” the manager explained.

In a subsequent statement, the park verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were declining. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the director remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or compassionate option” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, pleading for a second chance for the other big cats, while past workers expressed hope that the facility would rethink the decision to euthanise them.

The manager mentioned that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received threatening and abusive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we request compassion and respect as we manage this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the choice to put down the lions rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer stated that putting down had to be performed compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to confirm this is done correctly,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure responsibilities.”

The park achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility repeatedly ran into financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the park to shut down until the habitats were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.